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Autism Broadcasting Media Channel (ABMC)

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Free School Meeting Checklist

Practical steps to help families feel prepared before, during and after a school meeting. Print this page or use it on your phone.

General information only. This checklist is not legal, medical or educational advice, and rules differ by state and school. For decisions about your child’s rights or services, contact your state’s Parent Training and Information Center, a qualified advocate or an attorney.

Before the meeting

  • Ask the school for the meeting date, time, length and who will attend, in writing.
  • Ask for any draft plans, reports or evaluation results ahead of time so you can read them calmly.
  • Write down your child’s strengths, interests and what helps them have a good day.
  • List your top two or three priorities. Fewer, clear priorities are easier to discuss.
  • If your child can and wants to, ask what they would like the school to know.
  • Decide whether to bring a support person, and let the school know who is coming.
  • Ask whether an interpreter or other accommodation is needed for you to take part fully.

Documents to bring

  • The current plan (for example an IEP or 504 plan), if your child has one.
  • Recent report cards, progress reports and work samples.
  • Any outside evaluations or letters you choose to share.
  • Your notes on what has worked and what has not at home and school.
  • A record of past emails, calls and meetings with dates.
  • A notebook or device for taking notes, and a pen.

Questions you can ask

  • What is going well for my child right now?
  • How is progress measured, and how often will I hear about it?
  • What supports are used during the day, and who provides them?
  • What happens when my child is overwhelmed or upset? Who helps?
  • Can you explain that term or acronym in plain language?
  • Who is my main contact, and what is the best way to reach them?
  • Can I take this draft home to review before agreeing?

Notes and follow-up

  • Write down what was agreed, who will do it, and by when.
  • Note anything you disagreed with or still have questions about.
  • Send a short, polite email summarizing what you understood was agreed.
  • Ask for copies of any updated plan or meeting notes.
  • Put check-in dates on your calendar and keep a simple communication log.
  • Celebrate your effort. Advocating is hard work.

Keep learning

Read our plain-language guide to school and IEPs, browse verified resources. The ABMC Shop currently lists optional paid resources, including the School Meeting Prep Kit (US$5.99). This checklist remains completely free; no sign-up or purchase is required.