Parents’ Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to common IEP questions, with links to deeper resources when available. (Educational info, not legal advice.)
Put your request in writing to the special education director/case manager. List areas of suspected disability and ask for a proposed assessment plan and timelines.
For copy-ready language, see our Letter Templates.
Federal law sets broad requirements; state timelines vary (often 45–60 school days from consent). Check your state DOE or our Resources page for state-specific links.
An IEP (IDEA) provides specialized instruction and related services with measurable goals. A 504 plan (Section 504) provides accommodations/access but not specialized instruction. Eligibility standards and procedures differ.
Typically: parent/guardian, special and general education teachers, LEA representative, and someone who can interpret evaluation data. Members can be excused with your written consent if their area isn’t being discussed.
At least annually to review, and at any time if you or the school believes changes are needed. You can request a meeting in writing—see Templates for a sample.
That’s state/district policy dependent. Some allow it with notice; others restrict. Ask in advance and check your state guidance (see Resources).
Present levels, measurable annual goals, services and minutes, participation in gen ed/LRE, accommodations, and how progress will be reported. A measurable goal states a baseline, target, and how it’s measured.
Accommodations change how a student learns or shows knowledge (e.g., extended time). Modifications change what is taught or expected (reduced complexity). Accommodations preserve grade-level standards; modifications alter them.
The IEP lists service minutes, provider (e.g., SLP, OT, special ed), and location (gen ed, resource, etc.). LRE = Least Restrictive Environment: the most inclusive setting appropriate to the student’s needs.
Teams consider behavior as a special factor. If behavior impedes learning, the IEP may include an FBA (evaluation) and a BIP (plan), with supports, training, and data collection.
Yes, if needed to access FAPE. The team uses data to determine which related services (e.g., OT, SLP, interpreting, Braille instruction, assistive technology) are required and how often.
Ask for schedules, service logs, and progress data; clarify who provides what and when. If staff refuse to implement goals, see our guide When a Teacher Refuses IEP Goals.
At the frequency stated in the IEP—often quarterly. Reports should show objective data relative to the goal (tool used, baseline, current level, trend), not just narratives.
Request an IEP meeting and the data supporting the change. If you disagree, ask for PWN detailing the proposal and rationale. You can pursue mediation, a state complaint, or due process if needed. See Templates for a PWN request.
Extended School Year (ESY) services are provided when needed to ensure FAPE, often based on regression/recoupment data or other factors. Ask the team to review data and document the decision in the IEP.
You must receive the Procedural Safeguards Notice at least annually and in certain events (e.g., referral, complaint). Keep a copy and refer to it when disputes arise. See your state version via Resources.
PWN is a written notice the school must provide when it proposes or refuses to initiate/change identification, evaluation, placement, or FAPE. It explains what, why, data relied on, options considered, and safeguards. Use our letter in Templates to request PWN.
Send a written request for complete educational records (evaluations, IEPs, service logs, discipline, emails that are part of the record). Schools must provide access within required timelines. See our Templates.
Start with the IEP team meeting and data. If unresolved: mediation (voluntary), state complaint (written decision on compliance), or due process (formal hearing). See state links on Resources.
If you disagree with the district’s evaluation, you can request an IEE at public expense. The district must either fund the IEE per criteria or file for due process to defend its evaluation. See the IEE request letter in Templates.
Possibly. When services aren’t implemented or were inappropriate, remedies can include compensatory education to make up for loss of benefit. This is fact-specific—document missed minutes and progress, and use dispute options if needed (see Resources).
Reminder: This FAQ is educational and not legal or medical advice. For state-specific timelines and forms, consult your state DOE and PTI center (see Resources).