Be Prepared for Individualized Education Program (IEP)

An Individualized Education Program or IEP is a document that indicates and directs specific services a child with a disability needs in order to access the free public education the child is entitled to by law.

Below is a preparation checklist as you start your IEP journey:

1. Collect and organize your records. Create a binder with progress reports, report cards, teachers notes, samples of homework, tests, etc. Review related laws and materials.
2. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act of 1975 Every Child Succeeds Act of 2015
   • Americans with Disability Act of 1990
   • Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973
3. Get to know key stakeholders. Check out this article that details the roles of the special education team members involved in the IEP process. Be informed of the special education cycle:

   

   Connect with your Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) family case worker (FCW). EFMP FCWs can help you prepare for your child’s upcoming IEP meeting by discussing your goals, identifying appropriate questions, and reviewing the process. They can also attend the IEP meeting in a supportive role.