Overview
Parents have the right to request an IEP meeting at any time. A written request to the school district triggers the process.
Key Points to Remember
- You can request an IEP meeting at any time in writing.
- Schools are required to respond in a timely manner.
- Bring support like an advocate or therapist if needed.
- Document your requests and follow up if ignored.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can request an IEP meeting by contacting the school – typically, you’d reach out to your child’s teacher, the special education case manager, or the school principal. It’s best to put your request in writing (an email or letter) so there’s a record of it. In your request, state that you would like to schedule an IEP meeting and briefly explain why or what issues you want to discuss. Once the school receives your request, they should work with you to set a meeting date at a mutually convenient time.
Yes. You do not have to wait for the annual IEP review if you have concerns – parents (as well as teachers or other IEP team members) can request an IEP meeting at any time during the school year. It’s common to ask for a meeting if you feel the IEP isn’t being followed, if your child isn’t making progress, or if something significant has changed (like a new diagnosis or behavior issue). The school should accommodate reasonable requests for an IEP meeting.
Yes, it’s highly recommended to put your request in writing. An email or formal letter ensures there is documentation of when you asked and what you asked for. In your written request, include your child’s name, the date, and that you are requesting an IEP team meeting (and optionally the reason). Writing a request helps avoid any misunderstandings and starts the timeline for the school to respond. Many parent resource organizations even provide sample letters for requesting an IEP meeting if you need guidance.
While exact timelines can vary by state or district, schools generally should schedule an IEP meeting promptly after a parent requests one. Often, a meeting might be scheduled within a few weeks. Federal law doesn’t set a specific number of days for this, but “reasonable time” is expected. If your request is urgent (for example, a serious issue that can’t wait), mention that in your letter. If you feel the school is delaying too much, you can send a follow-up note or contact a special education administrator. The key is that the meeting should be held within a timeframe that allows timely discussion of your concerns.
Keep it simple and clear. Include: your child’s full name and grade, a statement that you are requesting an IEP meeting, and the reason if you have a specific concern. For example, you might write: “I am requesting an IEP meeting to discuss [child’s name]’s progress in reading and consider possible changes to his IEP.” You can also suggest times that are convenient for you. Always date your letter/email and keep a copy. (If you hand-deliver a letter, consider getting a receipt or have it date-stamped by the school office.) A written request with these details will help the school set up the meeting and know what you want to talk about.
Legally, schools should honor reasonable parent requests for IEP meetings because parents are part of the IEP team. If the school is reluctant or not responding, you can escalate your request by contacting the school district’s special education coordinator or director. Put your follow-up in writing as well, and note that you previously requested a meeting. If the school outright refuses, ask for a written explanation of their refusal (which they should provide in a Prior Written Notice). In most cases, schools will schedule a meeting to address concerns rather than risk non-compliance. Remember, you also have the right to pursue dispute resolution (like mediation or filing a complaint) if the school continually ignores valid requests, but that’s rarely needed just to get a meeting scheduled.
Absolutely. As a parent, you have the right to bring other individuals who have knowledge or special expertise regarding your child. This could be a relative, a friend for support, an advocate, a private therapist, or any person you feel could help communicate your child’s needs. It’s a good idea to inform the school in advance if you plan to bring someone (especially an advocate or attorney), so they know who will attend. Having a support person can be very helpful – they can take notes, remind you of questions, or just provide moral support during the meeting.
Legal Foundation
Federal Law Reference
34 CFR § 300.322 and § 300.503
This information is based on federal disability rights laws that apply nationwide. State laws may provide additional protections.
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