We’re Trying” Isn’t Enough: How to Get Real IEP Results for Your Child

Is your school saying “we’re trying,” but your child still isn’t making progress?

In this episode, Adrian breaks down why effort alone isn’t enough in special education—and what parents should expect instead.

If your child has an IEP but you’re not seeing results, this episode will help you understand what’s missing.

You’ll learn:
✔️ Why effort doesn’t equal progress in an IEP
✔️ What real IEP results should look like
✔️ How to ask for a clear plan and strategy
✔️ How to hold schools accountable

This episode is for parents who want to move beyond vague updates and start seeing real change in their child’s education.

📥 Download your free IEP Cheat Sheet:
💬 Join the Skool community: 

Transcript

SPEAKER_00 0:00

Welcome to Adrian IEP Coach Podcast, the show for parents of children with special needs navigating the special education and IEP process. I am Adrian, a special education advocate and former insider, and each episode I break down what schools don't clearly explain your rights, the laws, the language, and what actually helps move your child forward. No jargon, no sugar coating, just real clarity so you can stop guessing and start advocating with confidence. Let's get into it. Okay, so here's something to think about. When a school says we're trying, what they're often really saying is we don't have a clear plan yet. And that's a problem, especially when it comes to kids with IEPs. Oh, absolutely. That phrase, we're trying, it sounds so harmless, even hopeful, but when you really think about it, it's not enough. It's vague, it's noncommittal, and it doesn't give parents or kids what they actually need. Exactly. And what they need is clarity, strategy, and measurable progress. Trying might sound like effort, but effort doesn't equal results. And when it comes to education, especially for kids with special needs, results are what matter. So let's break this down. Why do schools fall back on we're trying? What's behind that phrase? Well, for one, schools are often stretched thin. They're dealing with limited resources, large class sizes, and sometimes a lack of training in special education. So when they say we're trying, it's often a way of saying we're doing the best we can with what we have. But here's the thing: that best isn't always enough. Right. And I think there's also a fear of overpromising. Schools don't want to commit to a specific plan or strategy if they're not confident it will work. So instead, they default to something vague like we're trying. And let's not forget accountability. When a school says we're trying, it's harder to hold them accountable for specific outcomes. It's like they're creating a buffer for themselves in case things don't improve. But the problem is that the buffer doesn't help the child. Exactly. And that's where parents come in. Because if you're hearing we're trying in an IEP meeting, and it's time to start asking better questions. Questions like, what's the plan? What strategy is being used, and what data shows it's working? Yes. And let's talk about why those questions are so important. Without a clear plan, your child is essentially sitting in a system that's just hoping things will get better. And hope, as well-intentioned as it might be, is not a strategy. That's such a good point. And I think a lot of parents hesitate to ask those tough questions because they don't want to seem difficult or pushy. But advocating for your child isn't about being difficult, it's about being necessary. Exactly. Your child deserves more than comfort. They deserve clarity, strategy, and progress. And as a parent, it's your role to push for those things, even if it feels uncomfortable. So let's get practical. What does it look like to push for clarity and strategy in an IEP meeting? It starts with asking specific, targeted questions. For example, if the school says they're trying a new approach, ask them to define it. What exactly are they trying? What's the methodology? How will it be implemented? And most importantly, how will its effectiveness be measured? And don't be afraid to ask for data. If a strategy is supposedly working, there should be evidence to back that up. Ask to see the numbers, what progress has been made, what benchmarks are being used to track success. Another thing to keep in mind is that you don't have to navigate this alone. There are resources out there to help you. For example, there are cheat sheets and guides specifically designed for IEP meetings. And there are communities of parents who've been through this and can offer support and advice. That's such an important point because it can feel really isolating to be the one asking tough questions in a room full of educators. But you're not alone. There are people and resources out there to back you up. Let's circle back to the big takeaway here. If you've been hearing we're trying in your child's IEP meetings, it's time to start asking better questions because trying isn't enough. Hope isn't enough. Your child deserves a clear plan, a proven strategy, and measurable progress. And as uncomfortable as it might feel to push for those things, it's worth it because at the end of the day, you're not just advocating for your child's education, you're advocating for their future. Well said. And I think that's a good note to end on. Remember, you're not asking for too much. You're asking for what's necessary, and your child deserves nothing less. Thanks for spending this time with me today. If this episode helped you see the IEP process more clearly, that means you're already becoming a stronger advocate for your child, and that matters. Remember, you don't have to navigate special education alone. Support, clarity, and guidance make a difference. Thank you for listening to the Adrian IEP Coach Podcast. Until next time, stay informed, stay confident, and keep advocating.