IEP RESOURCE CENTER

Your Complete IEP Guide

What Is an IEP?

An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a legally binding document developed for eligible students with disabilities in the United States under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). It outlines current performance levels, annual goals, services to be provided, accommodations, modifications, and placement. Every aspect of the IEP is negotiated between parents and the school team — and parents have real legal rights throughout.

Your Legal Rights Under IDEA

→You have the right to request an evaluation at any time in writing. You do not need a diagnosis first.
→The school has 60 days to complete the evaluation after receiving written consent.
→You must be invited to all IEP meetings and have the right to request a meeting at any time.
→You have the right to bring an advocate or attorney to IEP meetings.
→You can request independent educational evaluations (IEE) at public expense if you disagree with the school's evaluation.
→You must receive prior written notice before the school proposes to change or refuse to change your child's educational program.
→You have the right to a copy of your child's IEP within a reasonable time of signing.
→You can revoke consent for special education services at any time in writing.

How to Request an Evaluation

Write a letter to your school principal and special education director. Keep a copy. Send it via certified mail or email with read receipt. Your letter should state: the date, your child's name, that you are requesting a comprehensive evaluation for special education eligibility, and that you are requesting it under IDEA. You do not need to use legal language. You do not need a reason beyond your concern.

Sample: “I am writing to request a comprehensive evaluation of [child's name] for special education eligibility under IDEA. I have concerns about [brief description]. Please contact me to discuss next steps.”

Accommodations to Request

This is not exhaustive. Accommodations should be tailored to your child's specific needs — not selected from a generic list. Use this as a starting point for discussion.

Extended time on tests and assignments
Preferential seating (front, near teacher, away from distractions)
Reduced homework load without grade penalty
Verbal rather than written responses allowed
Tests in a quiet room or small group setting
Frequent breaks (sensory breaks, movement breaks)
Access to fidget tools or sensory supports
Written instructions in addition to verbal
Use of AAC device in all settings
Visual schedule posted at desk
Pre-warning before transitions
Reduced assignment length (same content, fewer problems)
Copy of class notes provided
Access to word processor for writing tasks
Speech-to-text software allowed
Extended deadlines with prior arrangement
Modified testing format (oral exam option)
Reduced sensory demands (headphones, dimmed lights)
Designated quiet space available
Social-emotional learning support
Daily check-in with trusted adult
Home-school communication log
Flexible seating options
Sensory tool kit at desk
Reduced class change pressure (early dismissal)
Lunch in smaller/quieter setting
Buddy system or peer support
Transition planning support (for age 14+)
Assistive technology assessment
Reduced class size or pull-out support

When School Says No

Schools are required to provide prior written notice when they refuse a parental request. If you disagree with the school's decision, you have options:

Informal Resolution
Request a meeting with the special education director. Bring documentation.
Mediation
A neutral third party helps you and the school reach agreement. Free in most states. Non-binding.
State Complaint
File a complaint with your state education department for procedural violations. Must be filed within one year.
Due Process Hearing
A formal legal proceeding before an impartial hearing officer. Most powerful but most resource-intensive.
Full School Rights Guide →Resources by State →Find Parent Training Center →
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