IEP meetings can feel intimidating—even for the most involved, informed parents. Whether it’s your first time at the table or your tenth, the process can be emotional, confusing, and overwhelming.
But here’s the good news: with the right preparation, you can walk into that meeting feeling calm, confident, and ready to advocate for your child.
This blog will walk you through exactly how to prepare for your child’s IEP meeting step by step—so you feel empowered and supported every step of the way.
Step 1: Review the Current IEP (if there is one)
Start by pulling out your child’s current IEP and reading it carefully. Focus on:
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Present Levels of Performance (PLOP) – Does it accurately describe your child’s strengths and needs?
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Goals – Are they measurable? Is your child making progress?
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Services and accommodations – Are they being delivered consistently?
Make notes in the margins or highlight sections that raise questions or concerns. If this is your first IEP, review the evaluation report instead.
Step 2: Gather Supporting Documents
Organize any additional information that supports your understanding of your child’s current needs:
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Report cards and progress reports
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Work samples
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Notes from teachers or therapists
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Doctor’s notes or outside evaluations
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Emails or communication logs with the school
Keep these in a folder or parent binder. If something feels “off” with your child’s services, this documentation can help clarify what’s really happening.
Step 3: Make a List of Concerns and Goals
Think about what you want to bring to the meeting. Ask yourself:
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What’s working well?
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What’s not working?
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Where is my child struggling the most?
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Are there new needs (academic, behavioral, social, or emotional) that the team should address?
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What goals would I like to see added or revised?
Pro tip: Frame your concerns around your child’s success. Example:
“I’m concerned that Martin is falling behind in reading. I’d like to talk about additional supports or changes to his current interventions.”
Step 4: Write Down Your Questions
Meetings can move quickly. Having your questions in writing helps you stay focused and ensures you don’t forget something important.
Here are a few to consider:
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What data are we using to measure progress on current goals?
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Is my child receiving all services listed in the IEP?
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Can we discuss assistive technology or classroom accommodations?
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How is behavior being supported during transitions or unstructured time?
There are no “wrong” questions—this is your opportunity to get clarity and make informed decisions.
Step 5: Know Who Will Be in the Room
By law, certain team members must attend the IEP meeting, including:
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A general education teacher
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A special education teacher
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A school district representative
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Someone who can interpret evaluation results
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The parent(s) or legal guardian(s)
You can also invite:
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A friend or family member for emotional support
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A private therapist or tutor
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A special education advocate (like me!)
Knowing who will be present can help you feel more prepared—and help you decide who else you want at the table.
Step 6: Organize and Bring Materials
Here’s a quick checklist of what to bring: ✔️ Your child’s current IEP (or evaluation)
✔️ Notes on concerns, goals, and questions
✔️ Supporting documents or data
✔️ A pen, notepad, and highlighter
✔️ A calm, focused mindset
Don’t hesitate to take notes during the meeting—or ask for a pause if you need one.
Step 7: Know Your Rights
You have the right to:
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Receive meeting notices and documents in advance
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Participate fully in all decisions
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Ask questions or request clarification
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Disagree with part (or all) of the IEP
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Request changes, another meeting, or mediation
The IEP meeting is not just a school event—it’s a team meeting where your voice matters just as much as anyone else’s.
Step 8: Follow Up After the Meeting
Ask for a copy of the finalized IEP and review it carefully. Make sure:
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All agreed-upon changes are included
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Services and minutes are correct
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Notes or comments reflect what was discussed
If anything seems off, request clarification in writing. It’s also a good idea to schedule a check-in with your child’s teacher after a few weeks to ensure things are being implemented as planned.
Bonus: Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
IEP meetings can be a lot to manage—and you don’t have to do it alone.
Whether you need help reviewing documents, planning your talking points, or just want someone with you during the meeting, a special education advocate can provide guidance and peace of mind.
Need Help Preparing for Your Next IEP Meeting?
I support families across California in navigating special education with clarity, confidence, and care.
At Pathway to Advocacy, I’ll help you:
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Review your child’s IEP
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Clarify your goals
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Plan your next steps
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Join you in meetings (virtually or in person)
📩 Contact me to schedule a consultation
🔍 Learn more about my services
Together, we can make sure your child’s needs are heard—and met.
