IEP Meeting Prep Checklist

Bring this to your next IEP meeting. You are an equal member of the team. You can ask questions, disagree, request evaluations, and take time to decide.

Before the meeting

• Request the meeting agenda and any draft documents in advance, in writing.
• Review last year's IEP: which goals were met, which were not.
• Write down your child's strengths, not just challenges.
• List your top 3 priorities for this year.
• Gather examples: work samples, notes from home, outside evaluations.
• Decide if you want to bring an advocate or a support person (you can).

Questions to ask in the meeting

• What data are these goals based on, and how will progress be measured?
• What accommodations and supports come with each goal?
• How will we communicate about progress between meetings?
• What happens if a goal is not working, when do we revisit it?
• Is my child included with peers as much as possible?
• Are sensory needs and regulation supports written into the plan?

Your rights (IDEA)

• You can request an evaluation at any time, in writing.
• You do not have to sign or agree at the meeting, you can take it home.
• You can call another meeting if something is not working.
• You can disagree in writing and request mediation or a due-process hearing.
• Your child is entitled to a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE).

After the meeting

• Get a copy of the finalized IEP and read it fully.
• Note anything that was agreed verbally but is missing in writing, follow up.
• Put the next check-in date on your calendar.