What is IEP Sidekick AI?
IEP Sidekick AI is a conversational assistant powered by GPT-4, specifically trained in special education law, IEP best practices, and parent advocacy strategies. Unlike generic AI chatbots, IEP Sidekick understands IDEA, Section 504, state regulations, and the real-world challenges parents face navigating the special education system.
Chat with IEP Sidekick AIWhat You Can Ask IEP Sidekick
- Questions About Your IEP: Upload your IEP and ask specific questions about goals, services, and accommodations
- IDEA and Legal Rights: "What are my rights if the school denies an evaluation?"
- IEP Goal Help: "Help me write a measurable reading goal for a 3rd grader"
- Accommodation Ideas: "What accommodations help students with ADHD in math class?"
- Meeting Preparation: "What questions should I ask at my child's IEP meeting?"
- Dispute Resolution: "How do I file for due process in California?"
- Service Recommendations: "How much speech therapy is typical for a child with apraxia?"
- Jargon Translation: "What does 'least restrictive environment' mean?"
Example Conversations
Parent: "The school says my child doesn't qualify for an IEP because their grades are good. Is this legal?"
IEP Sidekick: "No, this is a common misunderstanding. Under IDEA, eligibility is NOT based on grades alone. A student can qualify if they have a disability that affects their educational performance, which includes more than just grades. Courts have consistently ruled that schools cannot use 'good grades' as the sole reason to deny services. I can help you draft a response to the school citing the relevant legal precedents."
Parent: "What's the difference between an IEP and a 504 plan?"
IEP Sidekick: "Great question! An IEP (Individualized Education Program) is under IDEA and provides specialized instruction, related services, and accommodations. A 504 Plan is under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and provides accommodations only, not specialized instruction. IEPs have more legal protections, including the right to due process. 504 plans are often appropriate for students who need accommodations but don't require specialized teaching methods."
How IEP Sidekick Is Different
- Specialized Training: Unlike ChatGPT, IEP Sidekick is specifically trained on IDEA, Section 504, state special education codes, and IEP best practices
- Document-Aware: Upload your IEP and get answers about YOUR specific document
- State-Specific Knowledge: Understands variations in special education law by state
- Parent-Focused: Written for parents, not educators - explains things in plain language
- Advocacy-Oriented: Helps you prepare for meetings and understand your rights
- Integrated Platform: Works with all My IEP Hero tools for comprehensive support
Topics IEP Sidekick Can Help With
- Understanding IEP documents and components
- IDEA federal law requirements
- State special education regulations
- IEP goal writing and SMART criteria
- Accommodations and modifications
- Related services (speech, OT, PT, counseling)
- Evaluation and eligibility process
- IEP meeting preparation
- Prior written notice requirements
- Dispute resolution (mediation, due process, complaints)
- Least Restrictive Environment (LRE)
- Extended School Year (ESY) services
- Transition planning for high school students
- Section 504 plans and accommodations
Frequently Asked Questions
Is IEP Sidekick a replacement for a special education attorney or advocate?
No. IEP Sidekick provides information and guidance, but for legal advice or representation in disputes, you should consult a qualified special education attorney or advocate. My IEP Hero can connect you with certified advocates through our marketplace.
How accurate is the legal information?
IEP Sidekick is trained on current IDEA regulations and case law. However, special education law is complex and varies by state. Always verify important legal matters with a qualified professional.
Can IEP Sidekick see my uploaded documents?
Yes, when you upload an IEP to My IEP Hero, IEP Sidekick can reference it to answer specific questions about your document. Your documents are kept private and secure.
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