X for eXtended School Year: What ESY Really Is (and Isn’t)

IEP Inbox: Virtual vs. In-Person IEP Meetings "Which is More Effective?"

Are virtual IEP meetings less effective than in-person ones? In this episode, Monica Trost addresses this common concern, exploring the potential pitfalls of virtual meetings, such as technical issues and the lack of personal connection. However, she emphasizes that the effectiveness of any IEP meeting—regardless of format—depends on preparation and participation. Discover how to leverage the virtual format to your advantage, ensuring your voice is heard and your child's needs are met. As we wrap up Season One, Monica also shares a sneak peek into Season Two, featuring expert insights to support your advocacy journey. Follow @preparedparentadvocate [https://www.instagram.com/preparedparentadvocate/] on instagram:  Need 1:1 advocacy support for your child's IEP, or 504 Plan? Visit preparedparentadvocate.com [http://preparedparentadvocate.com] for a free consult with Monica Trost, LEP #4660. 00:00 Monica Trost answers real questions from parents navigating the special education process 00:48 Are virtual IEP meetings actually less effective than in person meetings for child 04:02 The IEP Field Notes for Parents Season one podcast series is ending

Z for Zoom: Engaging and Empowering in Virtual IEP

We've reached the final letter in our ABC Journey, and in this episode, we dive into the world of Zoom and virtual IEP meetings. Monica shares the pros and cons of this format, offering practical tips on how to prepare and stay engaged while navigating meetings from home. Discover effective strategies like screen sharing, utilizing the chat for questions, and the importance of keeping your camera on to foster connection. Monica emphasizes that, regardless of the meeting format, your rights and voice remain unchanged. Whether virtual or in-person, being prepared is key to feeling empowered. As we wrap up this series, get ready for a transition into preschool evaluations in our upcoming season. Tune in for insights that will help you support your child every step of the way! Don't forget to grab your free handout at www.preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast [http://www.preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast] Follow @preparedparentadvocate [https://www.instagram.com/preparedparentadvocate/]on instagram Need 1:1 advocacy support for your child's IEP, or 504 Plan? Visit preparedparentadvocate.com [http://preparedparentadvocate.com]for a free consult with Monica Trost, LEP #4660.

IEP Inbox: “What if I don’t feel like part of the IEP team?”

In this episode of ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents, Monica shares practical tips on how to get parent's input heard and considered during school meetings.  🎁 Get the free handout for this episode: @preparedparentadvocate [https://www.instagram.com/preparedparentadvocate] 🛠 Need 1:1 advocacy support for your child's IEP, or 504 Plan? Visit preparedparentadvocate.com [https://www.preparedparentadvocate.com] for a free consult with Monica Trost, LEP #4660.

Y is for Your Role on the Team: Be Collaborative, Be Assertive

Parents are not guests at the IEP table—they are equal team members under the law. In this episode of ABC of the IEP: Field Notes for Parents, Monica shares how to confidently take your seat at the table, balance collaboration with assertiveness, and keep the focus on your child’s needs without letting emotions or personalities derail the process. You’ll learn what the law says about parent participation, what effective teamwork looks like, and practical phrases to use when you need to slow things down or push for clarity. 🎁 Get the free handout for this episode: preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast [https://www.preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast] 📸 Follow Monica on Instagram: @preparedparentadvocate [https://www.instagram.com/preparedparentadvocate] 🛠 Need 1:1 advocacy support for your child's IEP, or 504 Plan? Visit preparedparentadvocate.com [https://www.preparedparentadvocate.com] for a free consult with Monica Trost, LEP #4660.

IEP Inbox: Is Summer School the Same as ESY?

Summer school and ESY aren’t the same thing—and mixing them up can lead to missed services. In this quick IEP Inbox episode, Monica explains the difference between general education summer programs and Extended School Year (ESY)services under IDEA, including: * Why ESY is tied to your child’s IEP (not just availability) * What to say if the school offers summer school but not ESY * When and how to start the ESY conversation 💡 Field Note: Ask early—don’t wait until May. 🎁 Grab the free companion handout at preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast [https://www.preparedparentadvocate.com/podcast] 📱 Follow Monica on Instagram: @preparedparentadvocate [https://www.instagram.com/preparedparentadvocate] 🧠 Need 1:1 advocacy support for your child's IEP, or 504 Plan? Visit preparedparentadvocate.com [https://www.preparedparentadvocate.com] for a free consult with Monica Trost, LEP #4660.