IEP and Me

IEP and Me gives parents and guardians clear, comprehensive insight into the special education eligibility process. Whether you’re just starting to explore support options for your child or have recently discovered that your child qualifies for services, this resource guides you through each stage with compassion and clarity.

First, we explain what it means for a child to qualify for special education under the law. Next, we break down the evaluation process, step by step, and show how schools make eligibility decisions. After that, we walk you through the next key stage—understanding the Individualized Education Plan (IEP). You’ll find out what the IEP includes, how the team creates it, and how you can actively shape the plan to meet your child’s unique needs.

Throughout this journey, we focus on empowering you to advocate for your child with confidence. You’ll also learn how to build strong, collaborative relationships with school staff to ensure your child receives the services and support they need to succeed and thrive in their learning environment.

The Panel

The panel will consist of Dr. Randi Kalish, Jennifer Starzec, and Areta Verschoor.

Ana Kohout is a current elementary special education teacher in the School District of Beloit. As a wheelchair-user, Ana grew up with an IEP, giving her an insider perspective that she carries into her current work with children and parents. This experience fueled her desires to help others and she received her Masters in special education in 2022 from UW-Madison.

Dr. Randi Kalish is a Nationally Certified School Psychologist licensed in the state of Illinois, currently working with school-aged children and their families within Glenview School District 34. Dr. Kalish’s experience includes supporting children preschool through emerging adulthood and their families with issues related to specific learning disabilities, intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, seizures, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, emotional dysregulation, trauma, and anxiety.

Jennifer Starzec is currently a Speech Pathologist at an elementary school in the Waukegan School District. As a wheelchair-user, Jennifer grew up with an IEP, giving her an insider perspective that she carries into her current work with children and parents. This experience fueled her desires to help others and she received her Masters in Speech Pathology in 2023 from the University of Illinois.

Areta Verschoor is a mother who has dedicated her life to advocating for her children, especially Ana, who grew up going to school in District 67 and 115. She is currently an active member of the community through being a Yoga Instructor at the Gorton Center.