Understanding Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)
Understanding IEPs
A parent-friendly guide to what an Individualized Education Program is, how the process works, and what to look for before leaving a meeting.
Start Here
An IEP is a school support plan.
An Individualized Education Program, or IEP, is a written plan for a child who qualifies for special education. It connects your child’s needs to goals, services, supports, and progress monitoring.
The Process
From concern to services
Inside the Plan
What should an IEP include?
- Present levels: where your child is now
- Measurable goals
- Services and therapy minutes
- Accommodations and supports
- Placement and setting
- How progress will be measured
Quick gut check
If the plan could describe almost any child, it probably needs more detail.
A strong IEP should sound like your child.
A Living Document
When should I ask for an IEP meeting?
Ask for a meeting when:
- New evaluation results are available
- Your child is not making progress
- Behavior, communication, or learning needs change
- The current placement no longer seems appropriate
Helpful question:
Does the current plan accurately reflect who my child is today?
If the answer is no, it may be time to request a meeting.
Before You Leave
A strong plan should answer three questions.
Before leaving an IEP meeting, make sure the plan clearly explains where your child is now, where the team is trying to go, and how the school will help them get there.
Next Step
The goal is progress, not paperwork.
Once you understand the IEP process, the next step is preparing for school transitions, placement conversations, and kindergarten planning.
Finding Help