Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), your child is entitled to a meeting to determine the best way to meet their needs. This meeting is an opportunity for all members of your child’s team to collaborate and establish where they are currently in their education and where they have educational deficits. Then, goals can be established, and a plan to assist your child in obtaining the desired outcomes.

The IEP meeting is a very important part of your child’s educational journey. We want to encourage you to be the main voice advocating for your child; do not allow others to make these critical decisions without your input and approval. Contact Lavian Law Firm, APC, to learn more about our services and how we can be an ever-present resource during this fundamental process. Our role is to provide you with the education you need to make these important decisions. We are a resource, your advocate, standing firmly by your side to empower you with knowledge and support throughout your child’s educational journey.

IEP Team Meeting Members

The IEP Team plays a crucial role in tailoring educational plans to meet the unique needs of students with disabilities. The IDEA outlines requirements for the IEP Team of each child, which must include:

  • The parents of the child;
  • Not less than one regular education teacher of the child;
  • Not less than one special education teacher of the child, or where appropriate, not less than one special education provider for the child;
  • A representative of the public agency who—
    • Is qualified to provide or supervise the provision of specially designed instruction to meet the unique needs of children with disabilities;
    • Is knowledgeable about the general education curriculum; and
    • Is knowledgeable about the availability of resources of the public agency.
  • An individual who can interpret the instructional implications of evaluation results,
  • At the discretion of the parent or the agency, other individuals who have knowledge or special expertise regarding the child, including related services personnel, as appropriate; and
  • Whenever appropriate, the child with a disability.

Our firm can also  attend the IEP Team meeting serving as your attorney.

Request An IEP

As the parent, you have the right to request an IEP. You can write to your child’s teacher, principal, or even the special education office.

Even if your child already has an IEP in place, you have the right to schedule a new one if needed. You also have the right to request additional assessments for your child.

It is required that an IEP be held, at a minimum, once a year. Subsequent IEP Team meetings serve the same purpose as the first if changes need to be made to your child’s goals or treatment plan that can be addressed at the IEP.

Speak With A California Attorney Regarding IEP Team Meetings

If your child has an impending IEP meeting, or if you have concerns about their existing IEP, there is help available. At Lavian Law Firm, APC, we provide legal representation to families seeking the best possible education for their members with disabilities. To learn more about the services we provide and how we can help you, contact us via our contact page.