IEP meetings can feel overwhelming for families. There are acronyms, evaluations, goals, services, timelines, and sometimes an uncomfortable feeling that everyone else at the table understands the system better than you do.

In this episode of Secured Steps, Jeff is joined by Dr. Diana Fannon, an experienced special education professional and advocate whose background includes work as a teacher, school psychologist, and Director of Special Education. Through her work with Disability Ed Pros, Dr. Fannon helps parents better understand the educational system and advocate more confidently for their children. 

Together, Jeff and Diana discuss how families can approach the IEP process with more clarity, preparation, and confidence. The conversation draws from Diana’s years of special education advocacy and focuses on what parents can do before, during, and after the meeting to become stronger partners in the process.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Why IEP meetings can feel so intimidating for parents
• What families should understand before walking into the room
• How to prepare without feeling like you need to become an expert overnight
• The difference between disagreement and conflict
• How parents can ask better questions during the IEP process
• Why goals, services, accommodations, and placement need to connect to the child’s real needs
• How families can advocate firmly while preserving working relationships
• The importance of high expectations for students with disabilities
• What to do when the plan looks good on paper but does not seem to be working in practice

For many families, the IEP is one of the first major systems they have to learn to navigate. And like many disability-related systems, it can feel technical, emotional, and high-stakes all at once.

At Secured Steps, we often talk about the importance of structure. That same idea applies here. When parents understand the process, prepare their questions, and know what they are trying to protect, the IEP meeting becomes less intimidating and more productive.

Guest

Dr. Diana Fannon
Special education advocate, educator, and founder of Disability Ed Pros. Dr. Fannon’s work focuses on helping parents navigate IEPs with confidence and supporting more inclusive educational practices for students with disabilities. 

Listen if you are:

• A parent preparing for an IEP meeting
• A caregiver trying to better understand special education services
• A professional supporting families with children who have disabilities
• An advocate, educator, or advisor looking for a parent-centered view of the IEP process

Disclaimer

This episode is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, educational, financial, or individualized planning advice. Every family’s situation is unique, and families should consult the appropriate professionals for guidance specific to their child and circumstances.

Connect with Diana at https://www.disabilityedpros.com/opt-in-inclusionadvocaytoolkit.

Connect with Jeff at https://rockwoodwealth.com/special-needs-financial-planning/