Walking into your child’s Annual IEP Meeting can feel intimidating. Around the table are teachers, administrators, therapists, and specialists—all discussing your child’s education.
If you’ve ever wondered, “What is supposed to happen during this meeting?” you’re not alone.
Understanding the purpose of each part of the meeting will help you participate confidently and ensure your child’s educational needs remain the focus.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to what parents should expect during an Annual IEP Meeting.
1. Introductions and Purpose of the Meeting
The meeting typically begins with introductions and an explanation of why the team is meeting.
The Annual Review is designed to:
- Review your child’s progress over the past year.
- Discuss current educational needs.
- Update the Individualized Education Program (IEP).
- Develop goals and services for the coming year.
Don’t hesitate to ask who is attending and what each person’s role is on the IEP Team.
2. Review of Present Levels of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance (PLAAFP)
The Present Levels section is one of the most important parts of the IEP because it tells the story of where your child is today.
The team should discuss:
- Academic strengths
- Areas of need
- Functional skills
- Classroom performance
- Behavior
- Communication
- Social and emotional development
- Progress since the last IEP
Ask yourself:
Does this accurately describe my child?
If something is missing or inaccurate, now is the time to speak up.
3. Review Progress on Current Goals
Every annual meeting should include a discussion about the goals from the previous IEP.
Ask questions such as:
- Has my child met this goal?
- How was progress measured?
- What data supports that conclusion?
- If progress was limited, why?
Remember, goals should be based on data—not opinions.
4. Discuss Evaluations and New Information
If new evaluations have been completed, the team should review the results and explain how they affect your child’s educational program.
This may include:
- School evaluations
- Independent Educational Evaluations (IEEs)
- Private therapy reports
- Medical information
- Classroom assessments
Make sure the team considers all relevant information before making decisions.
5. Develop New Annual Goals
After reviewing your child’s current performance, the team should develop new annual goals.
Strong goals should be:
- Individualized
- Measurable
- Achievable
- Relevant to your child’s educational needs
Ask:
- How will progress be measured?
- How often will I receive updates?
- What happens if my child isn’t making progress?
6. Review Services and Supports
Next, the team should discuss whether your child is receiving the services needed to make meaningful educational progress.
This includes:
- Specialized instruction
- Speech-language therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Physical therapy
- Counseling
- Nursing services
- Assistive technology
- Behavioral supports
If your child’s needs have changed, this is the time to discuss adjusting services.
7. Review Accommodations and Modifications
Accommodations help students access instruction without changing what they are expected to learn.
Examples include:
- Extended time
- Preferential seating
- Frequent breaks
- Visual supports
- Small-group testing
- Assistive technology
Ask yourself:
Are these accommodations actually being used?
An accommodation only helps if it is consistently implemented.
8. Discuss Placement
The team must determine the educational setting where your child can receive a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE).
Placement decisions should always be based on your child’s individual needs—not staffing, scheduling, or available resources.
If a proposed placement raises concerns, ask the team to explain how the decision supports your child’s educational progress.
9. Ask Questions Before the Meeting Ends
Before the meeting concludes, make sure you understand the decisions that were made.
Some helpful questions include:
- What changes were made today?
- Why were those changes recommended?
- When will the revised IEP be implemented?
- When will I receive the finalized IEP?
- Who should I contact if concerns arise?
There is no such thing as asking too many questions when it comes to your child’s education.
10. Remember: You Don’t Have to Agree Immediately
Many parents feel pressured to agree with every recommendation during the meeting.
You have the right to:
- Ask for clarification.
- Request additional information.
- Take time to review the proposed IEP.
- Express concerns or disagreements.
- Request another meeting if necessary.
The goal is to develop an IEP that meets your child’s unique needs—not to rush through the meeting.
Final Thoughts
An Annual IEP Meeting is more than just a yearly requirement. It is an opportunity to evaluate your child’s progress, celebrate successes, address challenges, and build a plan for the year ahead.
The more prepared you are, the more confident you’ll feel advocating for your child.
Remember, you are an equal member of the IEP Team, and your voice matters.
Need help preparing for your child’s Annual Review?
You don’t have to navigate the IEP process alone. Whether you’re preparing for an upcoming meeting, reviewing your child’s IEP, or simply aren’t sure what questions to ask, The Hull Firm is here to help.
Schedule a free Discovery Call to discuss your concerns and learn how we can help your family advocate for the educational services your child deserves.
Because when parents are prepared, Cool Kids Win.
