Understanding the IEP: What Every Parent Should Know

Written By Fiona Bridges

If you're feeling overwhelmed by the IEP process, you're not alone. For many families, stepping into the world of special education can feel like learning a whole new language. Between confusing terms, legal timelines, and multiple team members at the table, it’s easy to feel lost. But here’s the truth: when you understand the IEP, you can better support and advocate for your child.

So, let’s break it all down.

What Is an IEP?

An IEP (Individualized Education Program) is a legally binding document that outlines a child’s unique learning needs, goals, and the services they’ll receive through special education.

It’s developed by the ARD committee (Admission, Review, and Dismissal team), which includes parents, educators, service providers, and specialists—and most importantly, you, the parent, are an equal member of the team.

The IEP is required by federal law under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and ensures your child has access to a free appropriate public education (FAPE).

Who Qualifies for an IEP?

To receive an IEP, your child must:

  • Be evaluated and meet criteria for one or more of the disability categories under IDEA (such as Autism, Speech Impairment, Specific Learning Disability, etc.)

  • Demonstrate an educational need for specially designed instruction based on how their disability impacts their ability to learn.

In other words, the disability must affect their access to the general education curriculum in a way that requires more than just accommodations or general support.

What’s Inside an IEP?

While every IEP is individualized, these are the key components you’ll see when developing an IEP:

  • Present Levels of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance (PLAAFP)

    • This describes where your child is currently functioning both academically, behaviorally, functionally, etc. It sets the foundation for goals and services.

  • Measurable Annual Goals

    • What your child is expected to achieve within an instructional IEP year (i.e. 9-21-2025 to 9-20-2026). Goals should be specific, clear, and focused on your child's areas of need.

  • Special Education & Related Services

    • This includes direct instruction, therapies (like speech or OT), counseling, or any other supports the child demonstrates a need for.

  • Accommodations & Modifications

    • Supports that help your child access the curriculum (e.g., extra time on tests, simplified directions, or reduced assignments).

  • Participation in State and District Testing

    • This outlines how your child will participate in standardized testing, and whether alternate assessments are needed.

  • Least Restrictive Environment (LRE)

    • Details where your child will receive services—whether fully in general ed, in a special education room, or a combination.

  • Service Minutes & Schedules

    • Specifies how often services will be delivered and by whom (e.g., 60 mins/week of resource math, 30 mins/week speech therapy).

Your Role as a Parent

You are not a guest at the IEP table. You are a vital member of the team. You bring insight, history, and goals for your child that no one else can. Here’s how to stay involved:

  • Ask for a draft of the IEP in advance if possible (typically 5 days before the meeting).

  • Prepare questions and concerns ahead of the meeting.

  • Speak up if something feels unclear or doesn’t align with your child’s needs.

  • You can request a meeting at any time—not just annually.

Common IEP Myths (That You Shouldn’t Believe)

❌ “Only kids with severe disabilities get IEPs.”

 Nope! A student qualifies based on impact to learning, not diagnosis severity.

❌ “The school decides everything.”

 Wrong. The IEP is a team decision, and your voice matters.

❌ “Once the IEP is written, nothing can change.”

 Not true. IEPs are living documents that can be updated as needs change.

What Happens Next?

Once the IEP is finalized and signed, services should begin right away. The school will track your child’s progress and provide regular updates (typically every 6 or 9 weeks - grading periods). The IEP team will meet at least once a year to review and revise the plan, but you don’t have to wait. If something isn’t working, you can request a meeting at any time.

Final Thoughts

Yes, the IEP process can be intimidating, especially if this is your first time. But once you understand how it works and what your role is, you’ll feel more confident in advocating for what your child needs to thrive.

You’re not expected to figure it all out alone—and you don’t have to.

Need Help?

If you're feeling stuck or unsure about your child’s IEP, I offer free consultations to help families navigate next steps with clarity and confidence.

📩 Schedule a free consultation here

Together, we can make the IEP process feel less overwhelming—and more empowering.

Fiona Bridges