Uploaded December 2025 | Updated September 2026, 1 week ago
When students lead their IEP meetings, they can speak up for their needs—and take an important step toward forging their own path, in school and in life.
At Olmsted Falls High School in Ohio, students don’t just attend their annual IEP meetings—they lead them. For 11th-grader Samson, taking an active role in these conversations has become an important part of growing more independent, both in school and beyond. Samson began attending his IEP meetings in eighth grade and hasn’t missed one since, gradually moving from some participation to a fully student-led model. “I like being a part of those meetings,” he says. “It lets my voice be heard.” He wants other students to know that having an IEP doesn’t set them apart—it simply means they get support where they need it.
For more strategies on supporting students with IEPs, visit: edutopia.org/topic/special-education
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#studentvoice #specialeducation #sped #iepmeeting
© 2025 George Lucas Educational Foundation
When students lead their IEP meetings, they can speak up for their needs—and take an important step toward forging their own path, in school and in life.
At Olmsted Falls High School in Ohio, students don’t just attend their annual IEP meetings—they lead them. For 11th-grader Samson, taking an active role in these conversations has become an important part of growing more independent, both in school and beyond. Samson began attending his IEP meetings in eighth grade and hasn’t missed one since, gradually moving from some participation to a fully student-led model. “I like being a part of those meetings,” he says. “It lets my voice be heard.” He wants other students to know that having an IEP doesn’t set them apart—it simply means they get support where they need it.
For more strategies on supporting students with IEPs, visit: edutopia.org/topic/special-education
Join the Edutopia community today to get articles, videos, and more delivered via email every Wednesday—all tailored to you and your unique role: edut.to/3wEVHUh
*Follow us here:*
Official Website: https://edutopia.org
YouTube: youtube.com/c/edutopia
Facebook: facebook.com/edutopia
Instagram: instagram.com/edutopia
BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/edutopia.org
#studentvoice #specialeducation #sped #iepmeeting
© 2025 George Lucas Educational Foundation
