Meeting and Dispute Prep

What to Do Before an IEP Meeting

Start with Draft or proposed IEP. Check this first: Check if the proposed IEP changes goals, services, accommodations, or placement without enough supporting data. Mark the page where the plan answers it. If you cannot find an answer, use the written request below.

Open these records

  • Draft or proposed IEP
  • Meeting notice or agenda
  • Progress reports and work samples

Check this first

Check if the proposed IEP changes goals, services, accommodations, or placement without enough supporting data.

Mark the page number where the plan answers this. If it does not, use the written request below.

Go to the request you can send

What to check

Read the plan for these specific details

Check if the proposed IEP changes goals, services, accommodations, or placement without enough supporting data.

Confirm last year's goals and services were carried forward despite weak progress.

Look for records showing parent concerns or requested changes are missing from the draft.

Worked example

The written record is missing a usable detail

What the record shows

The record does not clearly show the information in the first check above: Check if the proposed IEP changes goals, services, accommodations, or placement without enough supporting data.

What to ask for

Before the meeting, please send the draft IEP pages, the data supporting any proposed changes, and any refusals the team expects to discuss so I can review them in writing.

A written request you can use

Send one specific question

“Before the meeting, please send the draft IEP pages, the data supporting any proposed changes, and any refusals the team expects to discuss so I can review them in writing.”

Document based IEP review

Check the pages you already have

The review reads the pages you upload, points to the wording behind each concern, and helps you prepare questions. It does not send anything to your school or decide a legal claim.

Review the IEP First

Common questions

What should I review first for What to Do Before an IEP Meeting?

Start with the current IEP and the most recent evaluation. Compare the student's documented needs with the Present Levels, annual goals, services, accommodations, and progress reports.

Can I ask the school for IEP changes after reviewing the document?

Yes. Parents can request an IEP meeting at any time. Put the concern and requested change in writing. If the school refuses, ask for Prior Written Notice explaining the refusal and the data used.

What documents should I bring to an IEP review?

Bring the current IEP, the most recent evaluation, progress reports, work samples, relevant emails, attendance or discipline records when applicable, and a short list of your top concerns.