School and IEPs
What is an IEP?
An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a legally required, written plan that outlines personalized educational support for a student with a disability. It's essentially a custom blueprint for how a school will help that child learn, grow, and succeed alongside their peers.
Who it's for
IEPs are available to eligible students between the ages of 3 and 21 who qualify under one of the disability categories recognized by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) — the federal special education law passed in 1975. Services provided under an IEP are completely free to the family.
What an IEP includes
Every IEP must contain several key components:
- Present Level of Performance (PLOP) — where the student currently stands academically and functionally.
- Annual goals — realistic, measurable targets for the year.
- Special education services — specific instruction, therapies (like speech or occupational therapy), or assistive technology the school will provide.
- Placement details — how much time the child spends in general education vs. specialized settings.
- Progress reporting — how and when the school will update the family on the child's advancement.
- Transition planning (starting at age 16) — job skills, daily life skills, and college/vocational preparation.
The IEP meeting
The IEP is created and reviewed in a team meeting that includes parents, teachers, specialists, and school administrators. These meetings can feel overwhelming — many parents describe dread and anxiety going into them — but preparation, knowing your rights, and understanding the agenda ahead of time can make a significant difference.
Parents have full legal rights under IDEA to participate, provide input, and advocate for their child's needs.
IEP Guide (PDF)
A printable overview you can save, email, or bring to your next meeting — 6-page playbook to bring into the room.
IEP Guide (DOCX)
Editable version for adding your own notes, questions, and goals — 14-page fillable workbook. Open it in Word or Google Docs and type directly into the gray placeholder boxes. Nine sections take you from setup to sign-off.
IEP Service Tracking Log (XLSX)
A simple spreadsheet to log every session — date, service type, minutes delivered, whether it was missed or rescheduled, and notes. Builds the paper trail you'll need if services slip.
Going to a meeting soon?
Read our gentle prep guide.
What to do the week before, the morning of, in the room, and after.
How to prepare without burning out →