IEP Questions to Ask
Essential questions to ask during Individualized Education Program (IEP) development and review, ensuring you understand your child's educational needs, services, and rights while advocating effectively for their success.
1What are my child's current strengths, and how can we build on them?
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What are my child's current strengths, and how can we build on them?
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Why this works
Establishes a positive foundation and ensures the IEP recognizes and leverages your child's abilities alongside addressing needs.
2What specific areas of need have been identified, and what evidence supports these findings?
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What specific areas of need have been identified, and what evidence supports these findings?
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Why this works
Ensures you understand the assessment data and rationale behind identified needs, providing clarity on your child's challenges.
3What measurable annual goals are being proposed, and how will progress be monitored?
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What measurable annual goals are being proposed, and how will progress be monitored?
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Why this works
Clarifies expectations and accountability, ensuring goals are specific, measurable, and tracked throughout the year.
4What special education services and related services will my child receive?
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What special education services and related services will my child receive?
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Why this works
Identifies the specific support your child will get, including frequency, duration, and location of services.
5What accommodations and modifications will be provided in the general education classroom?
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What accommodations and modifications will be provided in the general education classroom?
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Why this works
Ensures your child has the supports needed to access the general curriculum and participate with peers.
6How much time will my child spend in general education versus special education settings?
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How much time will my child spend in general education versus special education settings?
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Why this works
Clarifies the least restrictive environment and ensures your child has maximum access to peers and general curriculum.
7Who will provide each service, and what are their qualifications?
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Who will provide each service, and what are their qualifications?
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Why this works
Ensures qualified professionals will deliver services and helps you know who's working with your child.
8How will my child's progress be measured and reported to me?
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How will my child's progress be measured and reported to me?
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Why this works
Establishes clear communication about progress and ensures you'll receive regular updates on your child's development.
9What assistive technology or specialized equipment will be provided?
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What assistive technology or specialized equipment will be provided?
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Why this works
Identifies tools and technology that can help your child access learning and demonstrate knowledge.
10What happens if my child isn't making adequate progress toward their goals?
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What happens if my child isn't making adequate progress toward their goals?
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Why this works
Establishes contingency plans and ensures the IEP will be adjusted if current strategies aren't working.
11What extended school year (ESY) services are available, and does my child qualify?
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What extended school year (ESY) services are available, and does my child qualify?
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Why this works
Ensures your child won't experience significant regression during breaks and explores summer programming options.
12What transition planning is included, and how are we preparing for my child's future?
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What transition planning is included, and how are we preparing for my child's future?
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Why this works
For older students, ensures planning for post-secondary education, employment, and independent living.
13How will behavioral supports be addressed if my child has behavioral challenges?
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How will behavioral supports be addressed if my child has behavioral challenges?
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Why this works
Ensures appropriate behavioral intervention plans and positive behavior supports are in place.
14What role will I play in implementing the IEP, and how can I support my child at home?
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What role will I play in implementing the IEP, and how can I support my child at home?
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Why this works
Clarifies your involvement and provides guidance on reinforcing skills and strategies at home.
15What testing accommodations will be provided for standardized assessments?
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What testing accommodations will be provided for standardized assessments?
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Why this works
Ensures your child has appropriate supports during state and district testing to demonstrate their knowledge fairly.
16How will the IEP be reviewed and revised, and when will we meet again?
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How will the IEP be reviewed and revised, and when will we meet again?
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Why this works
Establishes the schedule for monitoring and updating the IEP to ensure it remains appropriate and effective.
17What are my rights if I disagree with the IEP or proposed services?
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What are my rights if I disagree with the IEP or proposed services?
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Why this works
Ensures you understand your legal rights and options for dispute resolution if concerns arise.
18How will my child's social and emotional needs be addressed?
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How will my child's social and emotional needs be addressed?
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Why this works
Ensures the IEP considers the whole child, including social-emotional learning and mental health support.
19What communication systems are in place between school and home?
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What communication systems are in place between school and home?
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Why this works
Establishes how you'll stay informed and connected with your child's teachers and service providers.
20What questions should I be asking that I haven't thought of yet?
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What questions should I be asking that I haven't thought of yet?
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Why this works
Shows openness to guidance and potentially reveals important considerations the team can help you understand.
Best Practices for IEP Conversations
Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.
Best Practices
Come Prepared
Review current IEP, assessment results, and progress reports before meetings. Bring questions and concerns written down.
Bring Support
Consider bringing a spouse, advocate, or friend to help you listen, take notes, and ask questions.
Take Notes
Document what's said in meetings, especially regarding services, goals, and timelines. This helps with follow-up and accountability.
Question Sequences
The Needs Assessment
The Implementation Plan
Common Pitfalls
Don't Sign If You're Not Ready
You can take the IEP home to review before signing. Don't feel pressured to sign if you need time to think or consult with others.
Don't Accept Vague Goals
Ensure goals are specific and measurable. Vague goals like "improve reading" aren't sufficient.
Don't Forget Your Rights
You're an equal member of the IEP team. Your input and concerns should be valued and addressed.