Preparing for a Powerful IEP/504 Year: Your “Why,” Outcomes, and What Actually Works

New school year, clean slate. Before the meetings start, let’s get crystal clear on your reason (your “why”), your expected outcomes, and how you’ll get there—so your child actually receives an educational benefit (the standard in IDEA), not just more paperwork.

In this episode, Karen walks you through the four anchors for preparing an effective school year:

• Your “Why” – Why your child has a 504 or IEP, and whether it’s delivering results
• Educational Benefit vs. Everything Else – What the law really requires (access + benefit)
• Expected Outcomes – Align with your spouse/partner and get it in writing
• The “Zach Pack” One-Pager – A 4×6 photo and plain-English narrative for teachers
• Collaboration That Works – Ask teachers how they’ll support goals so home/tutor align
• Data That Matters – Request blank data sheets; confirm teachers have the IEP/504/BIP
• The Overtutoring Trap – Stop “watering concrete” and protect your child’s dignity and play
• The Etch-A-Sketch Reset – August is the time to reset what’s not working
• Accountability in Paperwork – If it’s not in the IEP/504, it doesn’t count
• Lead With Love – Reset relationships, assume best intent, and stay outcome-focused

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👩‍⚖️ Hosted by Karen Mayer Cunningham, Advocate & Special Education Boss®
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