For many parents, an Annual IEP Meeting can feel overwhelming. You receive a meeting notice, gather your thoughts, and hope the team will make the changes your child needs. But here’s the truth:
The most successful IEP meetings don’t start when everyone sits around the table—they start weeks before the meeting.
A little preparation can help you feel more confident, ask better questions, and advocate more effectively for your child.
Here are ten things you should do before your child’s Annual Review.
1. Read Your Child’s Current IEP
Before discussing next year’s plan, take time to understand the current one.
Ask yourself:
- Which goals has my child mastered?
- Which goals are still a struggle?
- Are the accommodations actually helping?
- Are all services being provided?
The current IEP tells the story of where your child has been. The Annual Review is your opportunity to decide where they should go next.
2. Gather Recent School Information
Collect documents that show how your child is doing today.
Examples include:
- Progress reports
- Report cards
- State assessment scores
- Classroom work samples
- Behavior data
- Teacher communication
- Independent evaluations (if you have them)
The more information you have, the easier it is to identify patterns and advocate for meaningful changes.
3. Make a List of Your Concerns
Don’t rely on memory during the meeting.
Write down every concern you want to discuss, including:
- Academic progress
- Reading or math struggles
- Behavior
- Communication
- Executive functioning
- Social skills
- Homework
- Attendance
- Safety concerns
Bringing a written list helps ensure nothing gets overlooked.
4. Think About Next Year’s Goals
Annual goals should address your child’s greatest areas of need—not simply repeat last year’s objectives.
Ask yourself:
- What skills does my child need to become more independent?
- What is preventing meaningful progress?
- What should success look like by next year?
Good IEP goals are measurable, meaningful, and individualized.
5. Request a Draft IEP Before the Meeting
Many school districts prepare a draft IEP before the Annual Review.
Requesting it ahead of time allows you to:
- Read it carefully
- Identify questions
- Compare proposed changes
- Avoid feeling pressured to make decisions during the meeting
Remember: A draft is just that—a draft. It should be discussed and revised by the IEP Team.
6. Review Evaluations
Look at any recent evaluations completed by the school or private providers.
Ask yourself:
- Do they accurately describe my child?
- Are recommendations reflected in the proposed IEP?
- Does the team have all available information?
Evaluations should guide educational decisions—not sit in a file cabinet.
7. Decide Who Should Attend
You are not required to attend the meeting alone.
Depending on your child’s needs, you may want to invite:
- A spouse or family member
- A private therapist
- An educational advocate
- An attorney
- An independent evaluator
Having another person present can help you take notes, ask questions, and feel supported.
8. Organize Your Questions
One of the best ways to stay focused is to prepare your questions in advance.
Some examples include:
- How was progress measured?
- Why was this goal selected?
- What data supports this recommendation?
- What happens if my child doesn’t make progress?
- What additional supports were considered?
Questions encourage discussion and help the team make informed decisions.
9. Remember That You Are Part of the Team
Parents are equal members of the IEP Team.
That means your input matters.
You have the right to:
- Ask questions
- Request explanations
- Suggest revisions
- Share outside information
- Disagree with recommendations
- Request additional meetings if needed
Your perspective is valuable because no one knows your child better than you do.
10. Focus on Progress—Not Perfection
An Annual Review isn’t about creating a perfect IEP.
It’s about creating the right IEP for your child at this point in their educational journey.
Come prepared, stay collaborative, ask thoughtful questions, and remember that meaningful advocacy often happens through productive conversations.
Final Thoughts
Preparing for your child’s Annual Review doesn’t have to be stressful.
With the right information and a clear plan, you can walk into the meeting feeling confident and ready to advocate for your child’s success.
At The Hull Firm, we believe informed parents make powerful advocates. Whether you need help reviewing your child’s records, preparing for an upcoming IEP meeting, or developing a strategy for the school year, we’re here to help.
Need support before 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 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.
