If your child is receiving special education services, you are probably familiar with what an ARD meeting is. But knowing how to prepare for one can be overwhelming for parents.
You don’t have to be scared – you can be prepared. Our IDEA Manual has a comprehensive section on ARD meetings plus a checklist for parents on how to get ready. A few tips you will find include:
Ask for a pre-ARD meeting
You may want to meet with your child’s teacher(s) or service providers before the meeting to discuss possible IEP goals. It gives parents and educators an informal opportunity to discuss a child’s progress and what tools she might need.
Carefully read the ARD meeting notice
Make sure you understand what issues will be discussed and who will attend. If necessary, request that additional items of discussion be added to the agenda.
Get copies of all relevant information
Make sure you have copies of all relevant information you will need for the meeting such as your child’s most recent evaluations, teacher progress notes, the school’s Student Code of Conduct and any disciplinary referrals, etc.
Prepare a list of your child’s needs
Make a list of the instructional/behavioral modifications and accommodations you know work best for your child.
Learn more
You can get our full checklist on How to Prepare for an ARD Meeting on page 74 of the IDEA Manual. And for full details on ARD meetings, go to page 26 in the manual.
We also have several other resources on our website to help you advocate for your child:
- Requesting an Initial Evaluation
- How to File a TEA Complaint
- How to File a School District Complaint
- Planning for Life After High School
Find additional helpful information in our Education Resources section.