An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a legally binding document developed for public school students who qualify for special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). The IEP outlines the student's current performance levels, annual goals, specific services and accommodations, and how progress will be measured.
10 steps across 1 sections
1. Steps Process
- Request an evaluation in writing. Write a formal letter to your school district's special education director or coordinator. Include your child's name, school, grade, your concerns about their educ...
- Consent to evaluation. The school must respond within a set timeframe (typically 15 school days). You will receive a permission form detailing who will evaluate your child and what tests will be us...
- Evaluation takes place. The school conducts a comprehensive evaluation within 60 calendar days (or your state's timeline) of receiving consent. Assessments may cover academic skills, speech and lan...
- Eligibility determination meeting. A team of qualified professionals and the parents review evaluation results to determine if the child meets criteria for one or more of the 13 disability categori...
- IEP meeting (within 30 days of eligibility). If eligible, an IEP team meeting is held within 30 calendar days. The team includes:
- Parents/guardians
- At least one general education teacher
- At least one special education teacher
- A school district representative
- A person who can interpret evaluation results
Common Mistakes
- Making a verbal request
- Not understanding eligibility
- Accepting an IEP you disagree with
- Not bringing your own data
- Skipping IEP meetings
Pro Tips
- Bring a support person to IEP meetings
- Record everything
- Request an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE)
- Know the "stay-put" provision
- Use parent training resources