Getting Ready for Tomorrow's IEP Meeting

The night before an IEP meeting can be a bit overwhelming. I feel the weight of what’s ahead—having to stand up for what’s right when things might get tense, voices might clash, and emotions are running high. But as an advocate, I know I’m not just showing up to watch; I’m there to be the voice for change. When I really know the child and their family, this work hits home—it’s personal. I’ve seen the sleepless nights, the endless paperwork, and the hope these families hold on to, even when the system doesn’t always seem to care.

The night before the meeting, I can feel a bunch of different emotions: determination to fight for the services the child needs, fear that the meeting won’t turn out how the family hopes, or just a quiet calm as I get ready for whatever’s coming. All of these feelings are normal, and they show just how much I care. Advocacy isn’t easy—it takes a lot of heart and strength, but that’s what makes it worth it.

Fighting for equal education is tough work. Tomorrow, I might need to ask some tough questions, challenge old thinking, and push for inclusion.

Here’s how I get myself ready:

1. Remember the “Why”
   Why am I doing this? Every child deserves a fair chance. I hold onto that. It’s what keeps me going.

2. Be Prepared
   I walk into the meeting knowing my stuff. I look over everything—the assessments, the evaluations, all the details. But more than that, I know the child’s story, not just from papers but from what the family has lived through. Preparation shows I respect their journey and am there for the long haul.

3. Use My Passion for Good
   It’s easy to get frustrated when things aren’t going the way I want. But I remind myself that my passion can build bridges, not burn them. Staying calm and clear can often make a bigger impact than getting angry.

4. Work Together
   An IEP meeting is a team effort. Even if things get heated, I try to see everyone in the room as a potential partner. We’re all working toward the same goal—helping the child succeed.

5. Take Care of Myself
   This work can be draining, so I make sure to take care of myself the night before. A quiet moment to myself, a cup of tea, or a walk helps me recharge so I can show up feeling my best.

When things get tough or stressful in the meeting, I remind myself who this is all for—the child. If they’re there, I think about their potential beyond the moment. If they’re not there, I picture their smile, their struggles, their brilliance. Every word I say is one step closer to the support they need to thrive.

It might feel like a big task, but I’m ready. If I’m the one chosen to advocate, it’s because I have what it takes to make a difference. I’ll walk into that room with confidence, knowing that every step I take for fairness is a step toward changing the system.

I trust in my prep, in the families who believe in me, and in the voice inside that says all children deserve a fair shot.

Regards,

Erin Jimemez

Chief Strategy Officer