School
School & IEP
Special education, IEPs, evaluations and school supports in New Jersey.
Navigating school services can feel like learning a new language. These guides explain common special education processes, parent rights, evaluations, IEPs, and school supports in plain language.
Start here with school support
I Think My Child Needs Help at School — Where Do I Start?
Learn the first steps to take when your child is struggling academically, behaviorally, socially, or developmentally at school.
School & IEP Guides
- EvaluationsRequesting a special education evaluation in NJHow parents can formally request an evaluation and what happens after the request.Open
- IEPsIEP basicsWhat an Individualized Education Program is, who participates in the IEP process, and what families may see in the plan.Open
- 504 PlansIEP vs. 504 planA simple explanation of how an IEP and Section 504 plan are different.Open
- Child Study TeamsUnderstanding the Child Study TeamLearn what the Child Study Team does and who may be involved in evaluations and special education planning.Open
- IEP MeetingsPreparing for an IEP meetingA practical checklist to help parents organize concerns, questions, documents, and priorities before the meeting.Open
- Special EducationWhat if I disagree with the school?Learn about communication, written requests, records, dispute-resolution resources, and where parents can find advocacy support.Open
- Special EducationSchool behavior supportsUnderstand how behavioral concerns may be addressed at school, including evaluations, behavior plans, and other supports when appropriate.Open
- Transition PlanningTransition planning in the IEPLearn how transition planning prepares students with disabilities for life after school and when families should begin discussing it.Open
More School & IEP guides
- EvaluationsHow to Request a Special Education Evaluation in NJHow New Jersey families put a special education evaluation request in writing, including a sample letter and what happens next.Open
- IEPsIEP Basics: What Is Actually in an IEP?A plain-language walk through the parts of an IEP and how to read your child's plan without getting lost.Open
- Child Study TeamsWhat Is a Child Study Team?Who is on a New Jersey child study team, what they do, and how to work with your child's case manager.Open
- Special EducationWhat to Do When You Disagree With the SchoolInformal and formal options New Jersey families have when they disagree with a school decision, and where to get free help.Open
- Special EducationBehavior Supports at School in New JerseyHow families ask schools to look at behavior systematically, including functional behavior assessments and behavior intervention plans.Open
Need help understanding your rights or the special education process?
SPAN Parent Advocacy Network
New Jersey nonprofit providing information, training, and support to families navigating education and disability systems.
Vicabell is not a legal service and does not provide individualized legal advice. For official New Jersey special education information, see the NJDOE Office of Special Education.
Not sure what kind of help your child needs?
What should I ask the school team?
- What evaluations have been completed?
- Can I receive copies of the evaluations?
- What services is my child currently receiving?
- How is progress being measured?
- What should I do if I disagree with the proposed plan?