"I've sat at over 500 IEP tables."
I'm Mary, a Special Education Advocate and the founder of The Advocate Ally. I created this special education resource because too many parents feel pressured to accept generic, "cookie-cutter" IEPs.
The guidance below is grounded in the same practical, document-based questions I raise in IEP meetings every day. Use it to ask for clearer, more individualized support for your child.
Mary
Founder, The Advocate Ally
What's Happening
The IEP states that progress will be reported at specific intervals (quarterly, trimester, etc.), but you haven't received any progress updates or the reports are uninformative.
Your Legal Rights
The IEP must state when periodic progress reports will be provided. Many IEPs use report-card periods, but the written schedule controls.
- Progress must be reported at intervals stated in the IEP.
- Reports must include real data on each goal — not vague statements like 'making progress.'
- You can request the raw data collection sheets used to track progress.
- Failure to provide progress reports is an IEP implementation violation.
What To Do Right Now
Check the IEP for the progress reporting schedule (usually quarterly or per trimester).
Send a written request asking for all outstanding progress reports.
Request the underlying data: service logs, data sheets, and probe results.
If reports are vague or missing, document the issue and ask the team to provide the progress information required by the IEP.
Don't Go Into This Blind
Before you send a letter or file a complaint, start with the written IEP. The audit can flag documented gaps, weak language, and sections that may deserve a written question or closer professional review.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I get progress reports?
What should a progress report include?
What if the report just says 'making progress'?
Review the document before you escalate
Upload your IEP to identify written sections that may need clarification, correction, or professional review.
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