Navigating the First IEP Meeting of the School Year
The first IEP meeting of the school year can feel a lot like the first day of school—full of anticipation, a little anxiety, and a whole lot of “what ifs.” Whether you’re new to the process or a seasoned IEP parent, these meetings set the tone for the months ahead.
Here’s how to walk in feeling confident, prepared, and ready to advocate for your child.
1. Review the Current IEP Before You Go
A lot can change over the summer—skills your child has gained, challenges that have emerged, or new diagnoses and recommendations from outside providers.
Read through the goals, accommodations, and services in your child’s current IEP.
Highlight anything that no longer applies or needs adjustment.
Make a list of your questions in advance.
Pro Tip: Bring copies of any recent evaluations, progress reports, or notes from therapists to support your requests.
2. Set Clear Priorities
You may want to discuss everything, but time in these meetings is limited. Identify your top 2–3 priorities for the year.
Examples might include:
Strengthening reading comprehension skills
Reducing test anxiety through accommodations
Building independence with daily routines
When you focus on what matters most, you’re more likely to see meaningful changes.
3. Know Your Rights (and Bring Them With You)
Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), you have the right to be a full, equal member of the IEP team. This means your input is just as important as any educator or specialist at the table.
You can request changes to the IEP at any time—not just during the annual meeting.
You have the right to ask for clarification on any term, service, or recommendation.
If you need more time to review changes, you can request to reconvene.
Remember: An IEP is a living document, not a one-time agreement.
4. Build Relationships, Not Walls
It’s easy to feel like you have to “go to battle” for your child, but often the best outcomes come from collaboration. Approach the meeting with a solutions-focused mindset:
Use “we” language (“We want to see progress in…”)
Recognize the team’s efforts while advocating for changes
Stay calm, even if emotions run high
Advocacy doesn’t have to be confrontational—it can be a bridge to better understanding.
5. Leave With Clarity
Before you leave the meeting, make sure you know:
Exactly what changes were made to the IEP
Who will be responsible for each service or support
How and when progress will be reported
Ask for a copy of the updated IEP and follow up in writing with a thank-you email summarizing the main agreements. This creates a paper trail and reinforces accountability.
Final Thoughts
The first IEP meeting of the year is your chance to reset, refocus, and reestablish the vision for your child’s success. Preparation is your best tool—and when you pair it with a collaborative spirit, you set the stage for a year of meaningful growth.
💡 Free Resource: Download our IEP Meeting Prep Worksheet to organize your priorities, questions, and follow-up actions before your next meeting.
