IEP meeting checklist
Free. Print it, or save it as a PDF to keep on your phone. Education only, not legal advice.
Before the meeting
- Request the draft IEP and any new evaluations in writing, and note the date you asked.
- Read the present levels section. Can you picture how your child is doing day to day?
- List every service and related service with minutes per week (or month). Mark any that are missing or cut.
- For each goal: starting point, target number, by when, and how it will be measured. Star any goal that is vague.
- Write 3–5 questions you want answered before you leave (services, placement, progress reporting, accommodations).
- Bring: current IEP, evaluations, samples of schoolwork, notes from teachers or therapists, and any private reports.
- Decide who is coming with you (spouse, advocate, friend) and what each person will take notes on.
During the meeting
- Ask for introductions and roles. Confirm who can make decisions today.
- Start with strengths and present levels before goals and services.
- For every service change, ask why, what data supports it, and what happens if progress is slow.
- Get unclear goals rewritten with a baseline, a measurable target, a timeframe, and a method.
- Confirm how often you will get progress reports, and in what form.
- Ask for prior written notice if the school refuses a request you make.
- Do not sign anything you have not had time to read. You can take the draft home.
After the meeting
- Write a short thank-you email that restates what was agreed, the same day if you can.
- If something was promised verbally, ask for it in the written IEP.
- File the signed IEP and your notes together. Note the next review date.
- For free parent training and information in your state, use Parent Center Hub.
