Six Principles of IDEA:
Principle #5
parent and student participation
Parent and student participation is at the heart of meaningful special education planning. Join ASK Resource Center in our series on the Six Principles of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Our focus will be on principle # 5: Parent and Student Participation in Decision Making. We will explore why active collaboration between schools and families is essential to student success.
In this webinar, you’ll discover what meaningful participation looks like, when participation is required under IDEA, and how strong partnerships improve learning, confidence, and opportunities for students of all ages. We’ll also tackle common myths and share practical strategies for building mutual respect and understanding at the IEP table and beyond.
Whether you’re a parent, educator, or advocate, this session will equip you with tools to strengthen communication, clarify rights, and ensure every child benefits from shared decision-making.
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
✅ Explain why parent and student participation is such an important part of the IDEA
✅ Identify when schools are required to include parents and students in decision-making
✅Understand what it means to participate meaningfully
✅Recognize and clear up common myths about parent and student participation
Join us November 24 from Noon to 1:00PM
Click Here to Register
ASK Resource Center Hosts include:

Susie Lund is one of the training coordinators at ASK Resource Center. She holds an MAE in Special Education and an Advanced Studies Certificate in Educational Leadership. She has over eighteen years of experience in the public school system, serving in various educator and administrative roles. Susie has been dedicated to creating more inclusive school environments throughout her career. She is enthusiastic about working with families and groups across Iowa to problem-solve and further the goal of creating more inclusive environments.
Kelli Carnahan joins ASK Resource Center as the Training and Communication Coordinator. She is a former intellectual disabilities teacher and enjoys empowering others to reach their full potential. Her favorite part of working with children with disabilities is seeing them learn new skills that others doubted would be achievable. Kelli lives in Central Iowa with her husband, Brady, and their two cats. She is excited to meet people across the state and share information about ASK and Disability Awareness.