Recording an IEP meeting.

[MRogalla]

I have an IEP meeting on friday and curious what peoples experience has been recording a meeting. I am in iowa which is a one party state so I know that I can record. I also know it is recomneded to send an email prior to the meeting to notify them that I will be recording. But I would like to hear what others have experienced. 

[Carolyn Rowlett]

I'm not in Iowa, but can tell you my experience in Missouri, which is also a one-party state.

I would first look at the school board policies to see if there is anything regarding recording school meetings.  Sometimes they put requirements on the right to record, such as a certain amount of notice.  So it is good to send an email prior to the meeting, but make sure it gives sufficient notice if that is required.

Some school districts have a policy, even if they are a one-party state, that you cannot record meetings.  Although I personally feel these policies violate the law, it's not a battle you want to personally take on, so hopefully your school district allows recordings.  Here in Missouri it got so bad with school districts disallowing recordings, that a non-profit disability rights group had to push for legislation specifically allowing parents to record IEP meetings (the legislation passed, fortunately!)

If there is no policy and you are verbally told "no," ask them how this works since the law gives you the right to record.  If you still get pushback, I would further encourage them to speak with their attorney and get a legal opinion on this issue because until you see a valid legal reason not to record in a one party state, you are going to record.  And if they refuse to hold the meeting based on this, file a state complaint.

Just preparing you for all possible scenarios - hopefully it won't get to the "worse case" scenario.  Good luck!

[Lisa Lightner]

Iowa is a one-party consent state, so you’re legally allowed to record without notifying the team. That said, you’re also right that it's highly recommended to give notice in writing ahead of time. This helps avoid unnecessary tension at the start of the meeting and puts you on solid ground if anything were to come up later. You won't win any popularity contests if you do it secretly. And I know, your goal may not be to win any popularity contests, but I always encourage parents to think about it in reverse: the team thinks they are meeting your child's needs, it is seldom that there are truly malicious IEP team members.So how would you feel if you were doing your best under the circumstances, and you were being secretly recorded?

In terms of experience: most teams act more cautiously when they know a meeting is being recorded. That can be a good thing, it often leads to clearer communication and fewer off-the-cuff comments. But some teams do get visibly uncomfortable or defensive. If that happens, just calmly remind them that it’s legal and that you’re doing it to help you stay focused and review the details later, not to “catch” anyone.

Also, make sure you have your device fully charged and that it records clearly. Some parents even say something like, “Just letting everyone know I’m recording for my own reference” as the meeting starts.

 

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