IEP Community Partners

Who are the IEP Partners?

• Community partner advocates of Portland Schools students and families receiving special education services. They have real life experience as advocates and/or parents of students receiving special education services.
• They know the special education system.
• They receive ongoing training for their role.

What is the role of IEP Partners?

• Help parents plan for IEP meetings.
• Provide support for parents during IEP meetings.
• Debrief with parents after IEP meetings.
• Coach parents on presenting their concerns effectively.
• Help other parents find information and resources.
• Help parents navigate the system.
• Promote the parent-educator partnership.

How do IEP Partners support the IEP Team?

• Help parents and educators be prepared for meetings.
• Help parents be an active member of the IEP team.
• Help keep the focus on the student.
• Facilitate an effective meeting experience.
• Help parents and educators work together to benefit the student’s education.

How can parents get an IEP Partner?

• A parent can contact Noelle Sisk, Family & Community Liaison in the Special Education Department to request an an IEP Partner.
• Staff can discuss the program with a parent and, with the parent’s permission, ask the Parent Liaison to call him or her.
• A parent may refer another parent to the Parent Liaison.