IEP Basics: What Is Actually in an IEP?

An IEP is a written plan for a student who has been found eligible for special education. It describes the student's present levels, measurable goals, the services and supports the district will provide, and how progress will be measured. It is written and reviewed by a team that includes the parent or guardian.

• Present levels: what your child can do now, based on evaluations and classroom information
• Measurable annual goals, with how progress will be measured and reported
• Special education services, related services such as therapy, and who provides them
• Modifications, accommodations and supports for school staff
• Placement information and participation with peers
• Statewide assessment participation and any accommodations
• Transition planning as the student gets older

If you cannot find one of these in your child's IEP, that is a reasonable question to ask the team.

1. 1Read the goals first

   Goals tell you what the school is actually working on. Ask whether each goal is specific enough that you would know if it were met.

2. 2Match services to goals

   For each goal, look for who is responsible, how often, for how long, and in what setting.

3. 3Check the accommodations page

   Ask how each accommodation looks on a normal school day and who makes sure it happens.

4. 4Look at how progress is reported

   Ask when you will receive progress reports and what data will be used.

5. 5Write your questions in the margin

   Bring them to the meeting. It is fine to ask the team to explain any sentence in plain language.

• A copy of the current IEP, dated
• The evaluations the IEP is based on
• Progress reports and report cards
• Notes from each meeting, including who attended
• Copies of every written request you sent and the responses

• Can you explain this goal in everyday language?
• How will progress on this goal be measured, and how often will I hear about it?
• Who provides each service, how often, and where?
• How do teachers know which accommodations apply to my child?
• What data will we look at before deciding whether something is working?
• What happens if my child is not making progress?

• An IEP and a 504 plan are different; eligibility and process are not the same.
• A recommendation from a private provider is not automatically part of the IEP.
• Services listed in an IEP are the district's commitment; if they are not happening, raise it in writing.
• Vicabell cannot review your child's IEP or tell you what services your child should receive.

• Print your child's current IEP, read only the goals page, and write down two questions to ask the team.

• Understanding the Difference Between an IEP and a 504 Plan
• Preparing for an IEP Meeting in New Jersey
• How to Request a Special Education Evaluation in NJ

• NJ Department of Education, Office of Special Education State information about special education in New Jersey public schools.
• SPAN Parent Advocacy Network New Jersey's Parent Training and Information Center for families of children with disabilities.
• Disability Rights New Jersey New Jersey's designated protection and advocacy organization.