Initial IEP Meeting Prep (First-Time Parents)

YOUR IEP MEETING GAME PLAN
Prepared for: [Your child's name] | Initial IEP Meeting | [Meeting date]
Parent: [Your name] | School: [Your child's school]

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AGENDA ITEMS TO RAISE
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[ ] Full walkthrough of the evaluation results: what was tested, what was found, and what each score means for [Your child's name].
[ ] Present levels of academic and functional performance (PLAFP), with concrete examples of strengths and needs.
[ ] Eligibility category and the data supporting it.
[ ] Proposed annual goals: each one measurable, each one tied to a specific area of need.
[ ] Service grid: special education and related services, frequency, duration, group size, and setting.
[ ] Supplementary aids, accommodations, and any assistive technology consideration.
[ ] Placement decision (LRE) and the rationale for the proposed setting.
[ ] How and when I will receive progress reports.

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QUESTIONS TO ASK
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[ ] Which IDEA category was [Your child's name] found eligible under, and what does that category mean?
[ ] What specific needs did the evaluation identify, and how does each proposed goal address one?
[ ] What does "specially designed instruction" look like in practice for [Your child's name]?
[ ] How is each goal measured? What is the baseline today and the target by next year?
[ ] What is the rationale for the proposed placement? What less-restrictive options did the team consider?
[ ] Who is the case manager and how do I reach them when I have questions or concerns?
[ ] What happens if [Your child's name] doesn't make expected progress?

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TALKING POINTS
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[ ] "This is our first IEP, so I want to make sure I understand each section before I consent."
[ ] "I'd like to take the proposed IEP home, review it, and respond in writing. I'm not consenting at the table today."
[ ] "Under 34 CFR 300.300(b), services can't start until I give written consent. I want to be fully informed before I sign."
[ ] "Please send me the final draft within 5 school days so I have it for my records."
[ ] "If anything is unclear, I will follow up in writing and request clarification or revision."

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YOUR RIGHTS IN THIS MEETING
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[ ] Under 34 CFR 300.323(c), the initial IEP must be in effect within 30 calendar days of the eligibility determination.
[ ] Under 34 CFR 300.300(b), the school cannot start initial special education services without my written consent. I can consent in part and not consent to other parts.
[ ] Under 34 CFR 300.320, the IEP must include present levels, measurable annual goals, services, supplementary aids, and a statement of LRE.
[ ] Under 34 CFR 300.321(a)(6), I can bring an advocate, evaluator, or other person with knowledge of my child.
[ ] Under 34 CFR 300.322, I am entitled to a copy of the evaluation report and the IEP itself.
[ ] Under 34 CFR 300.503, any decision the team makes must be documented in Prior Written Notice.

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THINGS TO BRING
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[ ] The full evaluation report (read it before the meeting; mark sections you have questions about).
[ ] Any private evaluations, medical records, or provider letters relevant to [Your child's name]'s needs.
[ ] A written list of your concerns and the strengths and needs you observe at home.
[ ] A notebook for taking notes during the meeting.
[ ] A trusted second person (advocate, partner, friend) to help listen and remember.
[ ] This printed prep sheet.