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Everything you need to know about the IEP process
Bring a separate set of notes to help guide the discussion:
Write down specific academic, behavioral, or social issues you are seeing at home and in the community.
Have a list of questions ready for the consultant (e.g., "Are the current goals appropriate?", "Should we request additional testing?", "What modifications are most effective?").
Any relevant medical diagnoses, medications your child is taking, and services they receive outside of school (e.g., private tutoring, therapy).
A list of things your child excels at and enjoys—this helps ensure the plan is built on their assets.
We start by helping parents understand the eligibility criteria under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
Clarifying assessment results and connecting them to specific disability categories (e.g., Specific Learning Disability, Autism, etc.).
Coaching parents on how to be an active, equal member of the IEP team.
Working together to create SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) annual goals that align with the student's present levels of performance and target skills needed for success in the general education curriculum.
Helpful links for additional information
An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a legal document that outlines the specialized instruction, services, supports, and goals designed to meet your child's unique learning needs.
The IEP is developed by a team that includes parents/guardians, general and special education teachers, a school or district representative, and—when appropriate—specialists such as psychologists, speech therapists, or occupational therapists.
IEPs are reviewed at least once a year, but parents can request a meeting at any time if concerns or new needs arise.
Yes. Parents are essential members of the IEP team. Your input, concerns, and priorities must be considered in every meeting and decision.
You're not alone—IEP language can be confusing. IEP Studio helps translate the process into plain, understandable language so you can participate confidently.
To qualify for special education, a child must (1) meet criteria for one of the IDEA eligibility categories and (2) require specialized instruction because of that disability. Eligibility is determined by the IEP team after a comprehensive evaluation. IDEA recognizes 13 eligibility categories: • Specific Learning Disability (SLD)—includes dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia • Other Health Impairment (OHI)—often includes ADHD/ADD • Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) • Speech or Language Impairment (SLI) • Intellectual Disability (ID) • Emotional Disturbance (ED) • Developmental Delay (DD) • Hearing Impairment • Deafness • Visual Impairment • Deaf-Blindness • Orthopedic Impairment • Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) IEP Studio helps families understand evaluations, eligibility decisions, and what each category means for services and supports.
IEP Studio provides expert guidance, helps you prepare for meetings, clarifies your rights, and supports you in making informed decisions—so you can advocate confidently for your child.
Your child's privacy and the sensitivity of educational records are our top priorities. We handle all documents with the utmost care and maintain strict confidentiality. Please note that our services do not replace an attorney or legal advice, and we do not provide legal representation. Our role is to provide guidance, support, and strategies for students and families while respecting all professional and ethical standards.
Schedule a consultation to get personalized answers and guidance for your child's unique situation.