Starting the School Year with an IEP or 504 Plan
What Parents Can Do Now to Set the Stage for Success
For families whose children have an IEP or 504 Plan, the back-to-school season brings additional layers of planning, advocacy, and emotion.
You may be wondering:
Will the teacher understand my child’s needs?
Will accommodations be followed from the start?
Do I need to reach out, or should I wait and see?
These are common and valid questions! Whether your child is entering a new school, transitioning to a different grade level, or continuing in the same building, a proactive approach can make a big difference.
Here are some ways to help ease the transition and start the year off on solid ground.
Review the IEP or 504 Plan Together
Start by revisiting your child’s plan. Read through the accommodations, modifications, and services outlined, and check for anything that may need clarification or updating.
Tips for Parents:
Make a brief summary sheet of key supports (e.g., extra time, reduced distractions, behavior plan) to keep handy
If your child is old enough, talk through the plan together so they know what to expect and how to self-advocate
Highlight anything that worked especially well last year or that may no longer be relevant
Check Plan Review Dates and Set Reminders
Every IEP or 504 Plan includes an annual review date, and keeping that timeline in mind can help you stay organized and involved. Planning ahead also gives you the opportunity to share updated information and prepare for meaningful team collaboration.
What to do:
Locate the review date listed on your child’s most recent IEP or 504 Plan
Add that date to your calendar or reminder app
Set a 4 to 6 weeks in advance so you can contact the intervention specialist or case manager within any thoughts, questions, or updates you’d like to add.
Use that time to provide updated medical or evaluation reports, share new observations, or request specific concerns be addressed in the meeting
A little preparation goes a long way in making the review process smoother and more productive.
Reach Out to Key School Staff Before the First Day
Teachers and staff want to help, but they are managing many responsibilities at the start of the year. A short, friendly email introducing your child and their needs can help build a positive partnership.
What to include:
Your child’s name, grade, and a few things that help them succeed
Key accommodations or strategies that are essential
Any changes in medication, behavior, or routines over the summer
A tone that is collaborative, not demanding
Create a “Snapshot” of Your Child
For some children, especially those with more complex needs, a one-page overview can be incredibly helpful. This is not a replacement for the IEP or 504, but a quick way to help staff get to know your child as an individual.
Include:
Strengths and interests
Challenges and sensory preferences
Triggers or early signs of stress
What helps them calm or re-engage
A recent photo if you feel comfortable
You can send this to a teacher, intervention specialist, aide, or school counselor.
Prepare Your Child for the Transition
Kids with learning, attention, or emotional differences may need more time and support to prepare for the return to school.
Ideas to consider:
Visit the school or classroom ahead of time, if possible
Practice the routine, especially if it’s changed
Review who they can go to for help at school
Role-play how to ask for a break, extra time, or clarification
Monitor the First Few Weeks Closely
Even with a solid plan in place, some issues may arise once the school year begins. Watch for signs of stress, avoidance, or frustration. If something feels off, don’t wait too long to check in.
What to look for:
Changes in mood, sleep, or appetite
Refusal to go to school or complete work
Frequent nurse visits or behavior changes
Trust your instincts. If accommodations are not being followed or your child is struggling more than expected, schedule a meeting with the school team.
Keep Lines of Communication Open
Consistency and collaboration between home and school are key. You do not need to email every day, but staying in regular contact helps build trust and catch small issues before they become big ones.
Suggestions:
Set up a monthly email check-in or quick phone call
Use a communication notebook or app if one is available
Thank teachers and staff when things are going well—it goes a long way
Final Thoughts
Having an IEP or 504 Plan in place is a strong foundation, but it is not a guarantee that everything will run smoothly. Your role as a parent advocate is incredibly important, especially at the start of the year.
At Acadia Psychology and Learning Services, we know how much effort you put into supporting your child’s growth. If you have concerns about how your child is functioning at school or whether their current plan is meeting their needs, we are here to help. Our evaluations offer clarity, direction, and personalized recommendations that can strengthen your child’s support team.