What should I expect at my child’s first IEP meeting?

Expect a conversation, not a test. You’ll meet with your child’s teachers, a special education teacher, a school representative, and someone who can explain the evaluation results. Together you’ll talk about your child’s strengths and needs, set annual goals, and decide which services and supports to provide. You are a full member of the team.

What to do

Check the meeting notice for the time, the place, and who will attend. If the time does not work, ask to reschedule.
34 CFR § 300.322(a)–(b)
Read the evaluation report beforehand and mark anything you do not understand, so you can ask about it at the meeting.
Bring a few notes on your child’s strengths, what works at home, and your biggest worries — the team has to consider them.
34 CFR § 300.324(a)(1)
Expect the meeting to cover present levels, goals, services, accommodations, and where your child will learn during the day.
34 CFR § 300.320(a)
Services cannot start for the first time without your written consent, so it is fine to take time to read the plan before you give it.
34 CFR § 300.300(b)(1)

What the law says

The IEP team includes you, at least one regular education teacher (if your child is or may be in regular classes), at least one special education teacher or provider, a school representative, someone who can interpret evaluation results, others with knowledge or expertise invited by you or the school, and your child when appropriate.
34 CFR § 300.321(a)
The first IEP meeting must be held within 30 days of the decision that your child needs special education and related services.
34 CFR § 300.323(c)(1)
In writing the IEP, the team must consider your child’s strengths, your concerns, the evaluation results, and your child’s academic, developmental, and functional needs.
34 CFR § 300.324(a)(1)
The school must get your informed consent before providing special education and related services for the first time.
34 CFR § 300.300(b)(1)
You are entitled to a copy of your child’s IEP, free of charge.
34 CFR § 300.322(f)

Have a meeting coming up?

Prepare for Your Meeting — Free

Common questions

Can I bring someone with me to the first meeting?

Yes — a partner, relative, friend, or advocate who knows your child can come, and you decide whether they have useful knowledge about your child. Let the school know in advance so the room and the notice account for them.

How long does a first IEP meeting take?

Plan for it to take a while, since the whole plan is being written for the first time. If time runs out before you feel ready, it is reasonable to ask to continue on another day rather than rush through the last sections.

Do I have to agree to everything at the meeting?

No. You can take the draft home, ask questions, and come back with changes. Services cannot begin for the first time without your consent, and you can put any disagreement about specific parts in writing.