My IEP Doesn’t Define Me

A Back-to-School Reminder

A new school year is here! You will meet new teachers, learn new things, and have new goals.

If you have an IEP, remember this:

Your IEP helps you learn, but it is not who you are.

You are more than your disability. You are more than your challenges. Your talents, kindness, dreams, and strengths make you special.

Your IEP is part of your story, but it is not your whole story.

What Is an IEP?

An IEP is a plan that gives you support at school.

Having an IEP does not mean you can’t succeed. It just means you may learn differently.

Think of your IEP like a map. It helps you reach your goals.

An IEP is a tool, not a limit.

Focus on Your Strengths

Everyone has strengths.

Maybe you are:

• A good friend
• Creative
• Good at sports
• A great gamer
• A problem-solver
• A hard worker
• Funny and kind
• Someone who never gives up

Back-to-School Challenge

Write down 3 things you like about yourself:

Set One Goal

You do not have to do everything at once. Start with one goal.

Maybe you want to:

• Turn in work on time
• Make a new friend
• Raise your hand more
• Ask for help when needed
• Be more independent
• Speak up for yourself

Small steps can lead to big success.

Use Your Voice

Speaking up for yourself is important.

You can:

• Ask questions
• Tell teachers what helps you learn
• Share concerns kindly
• Join your IEP meeting when you are ready
• Ask for what you need

How to Advocate for Yourself at School

Self-advocacy means speaking up for what you need to do your best.

You know yourself better than anyone else. It is okay to ask for help and share what works for you.

Here are some ways to advocate for yourself:

• Tell your teacher if you do not understand something.
• Ask questions when you need help.
• Remind teachers about accommodations in your IEP.
• Let adults know when something is not working.
• Share ideas that help you learn better.
• Speak respectfully and confidently.
• Participate in your IEP meeting when you feel ready.

Try Saying:

• “Can you explain that another way?”
• “I need a little more time.”
• “Reading directions out loud helps me.”
• “Can I use the support in my IEP?”
• “I have a question.”

Asking questions and using your supports can help you become a more independent learner.

The more you practice speaking up, the more confident you will become.

It’s Okay to Ask for Help

Everyone needs help sometimes.

• Athletes have coaches.
• Musicians have teachers.
• Doctors have mentors.
• Students have support teams.

Asking for help is part of learning and growing. 

Getting support when you need it can help you learn, grow, and reach your goals.

Take Care of Your Mental Health

Starting school can feel exciting, but it can also feel stressful or lonely. Some days school will be easy. Other days it may feel frustrating. That’s normal. Every student has good days and hard days. 

If you are having a hard time:

• Talk to a trusted adult.
• Talk to a parent, teacher, counselor, or friend.
• Share how you feel.
• Remember you are not alone.

Talking to someone you trust can make a difficult day feel a little easier. 

Check In With Yourself

Ask yourself:

• How am I feeling?
• Am I getting enough sleep?
• Do I have someone I can talk to?
• What can I do today to feel better?

Don’t Compare Yourself to Others

Everyone learns at a different pace.

Some students are great at math. Others are great at art, sports, music, technology, or helping others.

Instead of comparing yourself to others, look at how much you have learned and grown. Even small improvements can make a big difference over time.  

Learning takes time, and progress does not always happen all at once. 

Celebrate Your Wins

Success is not just getting an A.

Success can be:

• Finishing a hard assignment
• Asking a question
• Making a new friend
• Speaking up for yourself
• Trying something new
• Reaching a goal

Take time to notice the things you accomplish, even when they seem small. 

Remember This

• Your disability does not define you.
• Your mistakes do not define you.
• Your challenges do not define you.
• Your IEP does not define you.

What makes you special is your kindness, courage, hard work, and willingness to keep learning.

Back-to-School Challenge

Finish this sentence:

“This year, I want people to know that I am _____________.”

Think of something amazing about yourself and fill in the blank.

Need Help?

Talk to someone you trust, such as:

• A parent or guardian
• A teacher
• A counselor
• A coach
• Another trusted adult

If you are in crisis or need immediate support, call or text 988.

In an emergency, call 911.

One Last Reminder

Your IEP is a tool. Your disability is only one part of who you are. What people will remember most is your kindness, creativity, effort, character, and the way you treat others. Keep learning, keep growing, and remember that everyone learns in their own way.