Hey Teacher Friends!

Can anyone else believe July is almost over? 😳 Summer always seems to fly by faster than I expect! I hope you've had plenty of time to relax, recharge, and enjoy a little break before back-to-school season starts creeping in.

This week's Summer Prep Tip is one of my favorite organization hacks, especially for my fellow special education teachers.

☀️ Summer Prep Tip #3: Set up your IEP folders before the school year begins.

One of the best things I do each summer is prepare an IEP folder for every student on my caseload. It only takes a little time now, but it saves me so much stress throughout the school year.

Here's what I include in each folder:

📁 Label the folder with the student's name and IEP due date (or meeting date).

🗓️ Create a simple timeline by working backward from the due date. I include important deadlines like assessments, draft completion, invitations, and meeting dates.

✔️ Add your district's IEP meeting checklist so everything you need is in one place and easy to reference.

📄 Print a copy of the student's current IEP. I know everything is digital these days, but I'm still old-school—I like to highlight, make notes, and flip through a paper copy!

As the year goes on, I simply add work samples, progress monitoring data, parent communication notes, and anything else I'll want when it's time to write the next IEP.

It doesn't look like much at first, but having these folders ready before students even walk through the door makes IEP season so much less overwhelming.

📸 I've included a picture of one of my folders along with a FREE IEP Folder Cover & Timeline Template that you can print and use if you'd like!

I hope it helps make your school year just a little more organized.

Talk soon,

Ashlee 💛

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600 1st Ave, Ste 330 PMB 92768, Seattle, WA 98104-2246
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