7 Questions to Ask Before Your IEP Meeting

Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings can shape your child’s educational path in meaningful ways. These meetings determine the services, supports, and placement your child will receive. Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), parents are key members of the IEP team. Schools must consider your input, and if they refuse a request, they must provide a written explanation of what they are denying and why.

 

Preparing in advance can make these meetings more productive and less overwhelming. These seven questions can help you focus on what matters most.

 

1. What Do the Most Recent Evaluations Show?

 

Start by requesting the latest evaluation data and test results. Evaluations guide eligibility, services, and placement decisions.

If the data is outdated or incomplete, ask whether updated testing is needed. Decisions should be based on current, accurate information, not assumptions.

 

2. Is My Child Making Measurable Progress?

 

IEPs must include measurable goals and a plan for tracking progress. Ask how progress is being measured and whether your child is meeting those benchmarks.

 

If progress is limited or inconsistent, it may be time to adjust services, supports, or instructional strategies.

 

3. Are the Current Accommodations Working?

 

Accommodations are meant to help your child access learning. Ask whether the current supports are effective in practice, not just on paper.

If your child is still struggling, consider whether additional accommodations, such as extended time, assistive technology, or modified assignments, should be added or updated.

 

4. Does My Child Need a Behavior Intervention Plan?

 

If behavior is interfering with learning, the IEP team should consider positive behavioral supports. Ask whether a Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) is needed or should be revised.

 

A strong BIP focuses on understanding the cause of behaviors and providing proactive strategies, not just consequences.

 

5. Are Related Services Appropriate?

 

Some students need services beyond classroom instruction to benefit from their education. Ask whether services like speech therapy, occupational therapy, counseling, or other supports are appropriate based on your child’s current needs.

 

Services should be tailored, not one-size-fits-all.

 

6. Is This the Least Restrictive Environment?

 

IDEA requires that students with disabilities be educated with their non-disabled peers to the maximum extent appropriate.

 

Ask whether your child’s current placement balances support with inclusion. If your child is being removed from general education, the team should be able to explain why that is necessary.

 

7. What Happens If the Team Says “No”?

 

If the school refuses a request, you have the right to prior written notice explaining what was denied and the reasons behind the decision.

 

Parents also have options if disagreements continue, including mediation, state complaints, and due process hearings.  Understanding this process ahead of time can help you advocate more confidently during the meeting.

 

How to Prepare for the Meeting

 

A little preparation can go a long way. Before the meeting:

• Review your child’s current IEP and recent progress reports
• Write down your questions and priorities
• Bring relevant records or outside evaluations
• Consider bringing a support person or advocate
• Ask about recording the meeting if state law and school policy allow it

Being organized helps ensure your concerns are clearly heard and documented.

 

When to Seek Additional Support

 

IEP meetings don’t always go as expected. If there are disagreements about evaluations, services, or placement, it may be time to seek guidance.  In most cases, you have 10 days to act before any change goes into effect.

 

At The Rhoads Firm, LLC, we work with families across Missouri and Illinois to address special education concerns, enforce IEP rights, and resolve disputes with school districts. Whether you’re preparing for a meeting or facing a denial of services, having the right support can make a difference.

 

Call (855) 895-0997 or visit yourschoolattorney.com to discuss your situation and protect your child’s right to an appropriate education.