IEP Meeting Preparation Checklist

Why You Need an IEP Meeting Checklist

IEP meetings can feel overwhelming. You're sitting across from a team of professionals—teachers, therapists, administrators—and you need to be your child's strongest advocate. But where do you start? What questions should you ask? What rights do you have?

Our free IEP Meeting Preparation Checklist helps you walk into that meeting room prepared, confident, and ready to ensure your child gets the support they deserve.

What Makes a Good IEP Meeting Checklist?

A good IEP checklist isn't just a generic list of questions. It should be tailored to:

• Your child's age - Questions for a kindergartener are different from those for a high schooler
• The meeting type - Initial evaluations require different preparation than annual reviews
• Specific concerns - Academic, behavioral, social, or transition planning needs
• Your goals - What outcomes are you hoping for from this meeting?

Key Questions Every IEP Checklist Should Cover

Before the Meeting

• Have you reviewed your child's current IEP and progress reports?
• Have you documented recent examples of challenges or successes?
• Do you know who will be attending the meeting?
• Have you prepared questions about specific services or accommodations?

During the Meeting

• What are my child's current academic levels in reading, writing, and math?
• How is my child performing socially and emotionally?
• What specific goals are being proposed, and how will progress be measured?
• What accommodations and modifications are recommended?
• How often will my child receive each service, and for how long?
• What happens if my child doesn't make expected progress?

After the Meeting

• Do you have a copy of the finalized IEP?
• Do you understand all the goals and services?
• Have you scheduled follow-up communication with teachers?
• Do you know the timeline for the next review?

Common IEP Meeting Mistakes to Avoid

1. Going in unprepared - Without a checklist, it's easy to forget important questions in the moment
2. Not bringing documentation - Bring examples of your child's work, medical records, or outside evaluations
3. Signing immediately - You have the right to take the IEP home and review it before signing
4. Not asking for clarification - If you don't understand something, ask them to explain it differently
5. Forgetting to discuss transition planning - For students 14+, transition services should be part of the IEP

Your Rights as a Parent in IEP Meetings

Under IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act), you have important rights:

• You are an equal member of the IEP team
• You can request an IEP meeting at any time
• You can bring anyone you want to the meeting (advocate, family member, outside expert)
• You must receive written notice before any changes to your child's IEP
• You have the right to disagree and pursue mediation or due process
• You can request an independent educational evaluation if you disagree with the school's evaluation

How to Use This IEP Checklist Tool

1. Fill out the form above with information about your child and the upcoming meeting
2. Review your customized checklist - We'll generate questions specific to your situation
3. Download the PDF - Print it out and bring it to your meeting
4. Add your own questions - Use the blank spaces to add any specific concerns
5. Take notes during the meeting - Write answers directly on your checklist

Need More Support?

If you're looking for additional resources or a special needs school that's the right fit for your child, explore our comprehensive directory of special education schools, therapists, and support services across all 50 states.