After Issues With IEP, Meeker Mother Says To Be Your Child's Best Advocate

It's time to head back to class for many Oklahoma kids. For some, that means paying extra care to their children with special needs.  

A mom whose child goes to Meeker Public Schools has a message for anyone sending their child back to school with an IEP –Individualized Education Plan – this fall.  

An IEP is a plan to help keep kids with learning disabilities or developmental issues on track.  

News 9 met with Cassie Beeson and her 12-year-old daughter Anna to learn about the issues they had last year. 

Beeson is concerned about a series of issues she had with Anna’s IEP.  

“The reason I’m sharing Anna’s story is because I don’t want this to happen to another child,” said Beeson.  

The events took a toll on Anna.  

“It's taken just until now to get my happy go lucky little girl back,” Beeson said. 

Beeson told me it took consistent advocacy on her part to report and follow up on compliance issues. She finally complained to the State Department of Education in the spring.  

In a letter to the district from July 11, department officials say they found several issues with how Anna’s IEP was handled – including having her placement and location was changed inappropriately throughout the year.   

“If you have questions or concerns don’t be afraid to get an advocate. And you as the child’s parent are your child’s own best advocate,” said Beeson.  

News 9 reached out to Meeker Public Schools for comment on this story and has not received a response.