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I’m Melissa Gagne, a special education attorney and mom who has sat on both sides of the IEP table.
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This checklist is designed to help you spot those moments in real time, so you can ask better questions, slow things down, and protect your child’s supports before problems escalate.
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By using the IEP SLAY™ Red Flag Radar, you’ll learn how to:
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âś” Recognize common phrases that sound reasonable but often signal missing data or pre-made decisions
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âś” Spot process breakdowns that leave parents confused or sidelined
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âś” Identify emotional red flags that can quietly undermine collaboration
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âś” Know when to pause, ask clarifying questions, or request follow-up
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âś” Trust your instincts without feeling confrontational or unprepared
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This isn’t about catching anyone doing something wrong. It’s about staying informed and involved before problems escalate.