As a related service provider who attends IEP meetings regularly, I am amazed that I am often the person responsible for leading the team in its discussion. Being the captain isn't a bad thing — but only with preparation on our part can the student win.

One of our greatest opportunities for customer service and good impression can take place at an IEP meeting — and it is often overlooked. Starting with our introduction to the parent (which, by the way, many "captains" forget), we have the ability to speak of the safety of the service we provide, as well as the extensive training we provide to our drivers. In addition, we have the opportunity to ask questions about the child, his or her likes and dislikes, as well as information about specialized equipment the student may use and how it fits in with the ride to and from school.

This conversation is also a way for the parent to see transportation as an extension of the classroom before the discussion of goals and objectives even begins. Remember that an informed and knowledgeable parent will in turn understand his or her role and responsibilities. As a captain, if you see a member of the team not offering complete information or sense misunderstanding or confusion on the part of the parent, make sure the meeting is stopped until all communication is clear.

Don't come empty-handed
The transportation assessment checklist available for download below is a tool to help you address some of the issues that might arise in preparing an IEP. The checklist can be used as a resource in the meeting and it also can be completed and attached to the IEP as part of the addendum notes. The checklist, however, is just one of the things you should bring. Take some time to imagine the questions that might arise during the IEP meeting and then come prepared to address those questions. For example, you might bring the following:

• District bell times

• Training documents or a sample driver curriculum

• Bus schedules

• Maps

• Medical information cards

• Wheelchair specification logs/screening forms

• Parent handbook/pamphlet with bus rules

• Business cards (with phone number circled!)

  Finally, remember that the parent already knows that his or her child has a disability. The IEP meeting should be a time spent focusing on the child's ability. The school district somehow has become the entity to "fix" the child. Remember, we're the experts. Keep that in mind when speaking with the team members. Sometimes we say, "Gosh, this parent wants the moon." But think of what it would be like if the meeting revolved around your child . . . you would too.

  Click here to download the one-page Assessment Checklist for use in IEP meetings.

  Alexandra Robinson is transportation director for San Diego Unified School District and chair of the special-needs committee of the National Association for Pupil Transportation.