🏫 Helping Tennessee Families Start the School Year Strong
Starting a new school year can feel exciting, but also a little overwhelming. If your child gets special education services, planning can make a big difference. Families and schools can work together to help students feel ready, supported, and confident. Here are some easy ways to get started:
📣 Talk to the Teacher and IEP Team
Before the first day, reach out to your child’s teacher and Individualized Education Program (IEP) team. A short email or phone call is a great way to:
- say hello,
- share anything that changed over the summer, and
- let them know what works well for your child.
📘 Go Over the IEP
The IEP is the plan that helps your child learn and grow in school. Ask yourself:
- Are the goals still right for my child?
- Do we need to change any supports or services?
- Should we ask for a team meeting?
In Tennessee, if a school writes a draft IEP before a meeting, they must give you a copy at least 48 hours ahead—unless you say no in writing.
🚌 Get Your Child Ready
New teachers, classrooms, and routines can be hard at first. You can help by:
- making a picture schedule or calendar,
- visiting the school or practicing the daily routine,
- talking about what school will be like, and
- getting back into bedtime and morning routines one week before school starts.
If your child has behavior needs, talk to the IEP team about a Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP).
⚖️ Know Your Rights
Tennessee families have special education rights to help make sure students get what they need.
- You will get a copy of your rights, called “procedural safeguards,” every school year.
- Shortened school days must be decided by the IEP team—not used as a form of discipline.
- If your child is often sent home early, ask for an IEP team meeting and write down what’s happening.
👪 Free Help for Families
Family Engagement in Special Education – Tennessee (FESPED) is here to help. Go to www.familyengagementtn.com to find:
- easy-to-use tips and videos,
- printable guides,
- tips and support to help you get ready for IEP meetings, and
- contact info for people who can answer your questions.
✅ Back-to-School Family Checklist
✔️ Talk to the teacher
✔️ Read your child’s IEP
✔️ Ask for a team meeting if needed
✔️ Practice school routines at home
✔️ Use pictures, timers, or checklists
✔️ Know your rights
✔️ Visit familyengagementtn.com for support
With the right tools and teamwork, your child can have a great school year. Let’s work together to give every student a strong, supported start!