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Preparing for IEP Meetings

A comprehensive guide to preparing for successful IEP meetings, including checklists, questions to ask, and strategies for effective advocacy.

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Pocket IEP Team
Special Education Advocates & Legal Experts
Our team of special education advocates, attorneys, and parent mentors brings decades of experience helping families navigate the IEP process.

Preparing for IEP Meetings: Your Complete Guide

Preparing for an IEP meeting can feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation, you can ensure your child gets the support they need. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

Before the Meeting

1. Review Your Child's Current IEP

  • Read through the entire document
  • Note areas where goals have been met or not met
  • Identify services that are working well or need adjustment
  • Prepare questions about unclear language or terms

    • 2. Gather Documentation

  • Recent report cards and progress reports
  • Work samples showing your child's abilities and challenges
  • Any outside evaluations or therapy reports
  • Communication logs with teachers and service providers
  • Photos or videos that demonstrate your child's needs

    • 3. Prepare Your Questions

  • What specific data shows my child's progress on current goals?
  • How are the current services helping my child access the general curriculum?
  • What new goals should we consider based on my child's current needs?
  • Are there any assistive technology tools that could help?
  • How will we measure progress on new goals?

    • During the Meeting

    1. Bring Support

  • Consider bringing a friend, advocate, or family member
  • Take detailed notes or ask to record the meeting
  • Don't feel pressured to sign anything immediately

    • 2. Ask for Clarification

  • Request explanations for any educational jargon
  • Ask for specific examples of how services will be provided
  • Ensure you understand how progress will be measured

    • 3. Focus on Your Child's Needs

  • Share your observations from home
  • Discuss your child's strengths and interests
  • Advocate for services that address your child's unique needs

    • After the Meeting

    1. Review the Draft IEP

  • Take time to carefully read through all sections
  • Compare new goals to previous ones
  • Ensure services match what was discussed

    • 2. Follow Up

  • Send a thank-you email summarizing key decisions
  • Ask for clarification on any unclear points
  • Request a timeline for implementing new services

    • Red Flags to Watch For

  • Pressure to sign immediately
  • Refusal to consider your input or outside evaluations
  • Vague or unmeasurable goals
  • Reduction in services without clear justification
  • Dismissive attitudes toward your concerns

    • Your Rights

    Remember, you are an equal member of the IEP team. You have the right to:

  • Participate fully in all decisions
  • Request additional evaluations
  • Bring advocates or support people
  • Disagree with recommendations
  • Request mediation if needed

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