Steps of an IEP

1. Pre-Referral – documentation is
gathered and progress is
monitored
2. Referral – continued difficulty is
referred to the special education
services
3. Identification – assessments are
given and data is gathered Resources
4. Eligibility – information is Goodman,  J.  F.  (1993).  The  individualized  
analyzed for appropriate education  program:  A  retrospective  
placement of services critique.  The  Journal  of  Special  
Education,  4(26),  408.  
5. Developing the IEP – parents Skinner,  M.  (1991).  Facilitating  parental  
and professionals create an participation  during  individualized  
education plan for success education  program  conferences.  Journal  
of  Educational  and  Psychological  
6. Implementing the IEP – school

Individualized
Consultation,  2(3),  285.  
professionals put the plan into Smith,  D.  D.  (n.d.).  Steps  in  the  IEP  Process  |  
action and monitor closely Education.com.  Education.com  |  An  
Education  &  Child  Development  Site  for  
7. Re-Evaluation - modifications Parents  |  Parenting  &  Educational  

Education
and goals are analyzed yearly Resource.  Retrieved  February  4,  2011,  
from  
for effectiveness
http://www.education.com/reference/a
rticle/steps-­‐ndividualized-­‐education-­‐

Program
program-­‐IEP/  
Smith,  D.  D.,  &  Tyler,  N.  C.  (2010).  Introduction  to  
special  education:  making  a  
difference(7th  ed.).  Columbus,  Ohio:  
Merrill.  

A Parent’s Guide
Angelyn Cheatham
Southern Methodist University
Special Topics in Special Education for General Education Teachers
EDU 6389
 What is an IEP?
An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is an individualized plan of action for the education of a
child with a disability who qualifies for special education services. It includes modifications and
accommodations to the regular school setting that allow the child with the disability to have the greatest
opportunity for success and learning. It is developed based upon the needs of the child at hand by
professionals in the school, such as the general education teacher, special education teacher,
diagnostician, and administrators. The implementation and progress of the plan are monitored and
reviewed annually.

Tips to Help Parents

Throughout the Process
Before the IEP Meeting During the IEP Meeting After the IEP Meeting
• Review your child’s recent report • Follow along with • Keep track of your child’s
cards, medical records, and any progress.
other pertinent information.
information given by each
member of the meeting. • Maintain communication
• Write down any academic or
behavior concerns that you have for • Ask questions if any term or with your child’s teacher.
your child. procedure is unclear. • Contact the Special
• Consider your child’s learning • Take notes of the information Education teacher or case
needs. Atmosphere where he/she shared for future reference. manager of your child with
works best? Social needs? Physical any concerns.
needs? • Communicate your concerns
and expectations. • Make notes of what has
• Write down your expectations or
goals for the future of your child, worked well and what has
• Be open to suggestions given
including short-term and long term been ineffective to bring to the
to help your child.
goals. next IEP meeting.