3 Back-to-School Must-Dos for Special Education Parents

Back to school time is always a whirlwind. But if your child has an IEP or is in Special Education, you know it’s a whole different level of chaos, and communication breakdowns can lead to avoidable challenges in your kid’s year. The truth is, schools want to help, but information often gets lost in the shuffle. Let’s set you up for a smooth, successful year right from the start. special education back to school

Here are the three non-negotiables every parent of a special education or learning differences student should tackle before the first bell rings.

1. Build and Deliver a “Launch Kit” — Your Child’s VIP Pass to Success

Think of a Launch Kit as your child’s personal cheat sheet for every adult they’ll work with this year. It’s a super-simple, one-page overview attached to their IEP that tells teachers and specialists exactly what they need to know, fast.

Here’s the deal:

• Most teachers don’t get your child’s full IEP.

• Specialists like gym or music teachers? Forget about it.

• Even the main classroom teacher might be flying blind.

Sure, the special ed teacher should share this info, but it just isn't always the case. So let's build your launch kit!

What’s in your Launch Kit?

• A clear, friendly 4x6 photo of your child (helps teachers put a face to the name)

• A quick cover page with:

• Your child’s full and preferred name

• Grade level

• Allergies (because safety first!)

• What motivates your kiddo (snacks, stickers, high fives—whatever works)

• Strategies that make their day better and smoother

    • Personal Quirks

• Your best contact info

• A warm, “Looking forward to working with you!” message

Bonus points: Offer to help out in class or send some tissues if you can.

Okay, it's totally understandable if this feels overwhelming to do. That's why I set up a template you can fill in, download, and print.

How to get it out:

• Go to Back to School Night or any meet-the-teacher event.

• Hand it personally to every single person who works with your child.

• Smile, introduce yourself, and drop that Launch Kit like it’s gold.

• Follow up with an email copy so they can’t lose it.

This simple move sets you and your child up for a win right out of the gate.

2. Say Goodbye to Phone Calls (Almost) — Do All Important Communication in Writing

Here’s a truth bomb: “If it’s not in writing, it didn’t happen.”

You might be tempted to call the teacher or case manager, but that’s not as effective. Conversations get forgotten, details get fuzzy, and suddenly you’re left wondering what was actually agreed upon.

Your new rule: Keep everything important in email.

• Need to confirm a meeting? Email it.

• Want to request accommodations? Email it.

• Got questions about progress? Email it.

Bonus tip: Record all IEP and special ed meetings. You have to let the school know you’re recording, but tools like Otter.ai make this easy with transcripts.

This may feel intimidating, I get it. But I promise this will be a useful tool to refer back to and to have solid proof if ever needed.

3. Get an Advocate—Because Special Education is a Maze and You Deserve a Guide

Special education isn’t just complicated, it’s a jungle of laws, regulations, and sometimes, misinformation. Your emotions are invested, and you’re expected to know the ropes while doing it all.

That’s a lot to handle alone.

An advocate is your partner in navigating this maze. They know the rules, speak the language, and can save you from headaches, confusion, and unnecessary battles.

But watch out: Anyone can call themselves an advocate. No licenses, no certifications required. So, do your homework before you hire someone.

Ask your potential advocate:

• What’s your background with special education law?

• What trainings have you done lately?

• How do you handle sticky situations without turning it into an argument?

• How do you represent a child you may never meet?

A great advocate doesn’t play “gotcha” with the school. They keep it professional, respectful, and laser-focused on getting your kid the best support possible.

You’ve Got This!

The start to the school year can be tough, but when you step in with clear information, written communication, and a trusted advocate, you make it easier for everyone to row in the same direction — and that’s what sets your child up to thrive. You've got this.