Organizing an annual IEP review and meeting is a critical responsibility for teachers. It ensures that disabled students receive the appropriate support and services to thrive academically and personally. And it’s a lot of work!

This comprehensive checklist is designed to guide you through every step of the process, including additional components for students undergoing their triennial IEP evaluations. Whether you’re a seasoned educator or new to the IEP process, this guide will help you navigate the tasks involved and ensure a successful and productive meeting.

Iep meeting checklist for teachers
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Checklist for Organizing an Annual IEP Review and Meeting

Pre IEP Meeting Preparation

  1. Review Studentโ€™s Current IEP
    • Read through the current IEP document.
    • Make notes on areas of progress and areas needing improvement.
  2. Initiate Triennial Evaluation Process
  3. Gather Existing Data and Assessments
    • Collect academic performance data.
    • Obtain progress reports from all relevant teachers and service providers.
    • Review recent assessment results (both formal and informal).
  4. Conduct Comprehensive Evaluations
    • Arrange for the necessary evaluations (cognitive, academic, speech/language, occupational therapy, physical therapy, etc.).
    • Ensure all evaluations are completed in a timely manner.
    • Collect input from all team members regarding the studentโ€™s current performance and needs.
  5. Consult with Specialists
    • Meet with special education teachers, therapists, and any other involved specialists to discuss the studentโ€™s progress and needs.
  6. Parent Communication
    • Send a meeting invitation to parents at least 10 days in advance.
    • Provide parents with a draft agenda and any data or reports to be discussed.
    • Ask parents if they have any specific concerns or topics they want to address.
  7. Schedule Meeting
    • Ensure the availability of all necessary team members (general education teacher, special education teacher, related service providers, etc.).
    • Confirm the meeting date, time, and location with all participants.

During the IEP Meeting

  1. Introductions and Agenda Review
  2. Review IEP Evaluation Results
    • Present the results of the triennial evaluations.
    • Discuss how the evaluation results impact the studentโ€™s eligibility for special education services.
  3. Review Studentโ€™s Progress
    • Discuss the studentโ€™s progress towards current IEP goals.
    • Share data and observations from various team members.
  4. Parental Input
    • Provide parents with an opportunity to share their observations and concerns.
    • Address any specific questions or topics raised by parents.
  5. Develop New Goals
    • Based on the studentโ€™s progress and current needs, develop new IEP goals.
    • Ensure goals are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).
  6. Determine Services and Accommodations
    • Discuss necessary special education services and related services.
    • Review and update accommodations and modifications as needed.
  7. Plan for Transition Services
    • For students approaching a transition (e.g., moving to a different grade level or preparing for post-secondary life), develop a transition plan.
    • Ensure the plan includes steps for achieving post-secondary goals.

Post IEP Meeting Follow-Up

  1. Finalize IEP Document
    • Complete and finalize the IEP document based on meeting discussions.
    • Ensure all team members, including parents, sign the IEP.
  2. Distribute Final IEP
    • Provide a copy of the final IEP to parents and all relevant team members.
    • Ensure all service providers have access to the IEP to implement it correctly.
  3. Implement IEP
    • Communicate any changes or updates to the studentโ€™s plan to all teachers and service providers.
    • Begin implementing the new goals, services, and accommodations according to the date on the IEP.
  4. Monitor Progress
    • Regularly collect IEP data on the studentโ€™s progress towards IEP goals.
    • Schedule periodic check-ins with parents and team members to discuss ongoing progress and any necessary adjustments.
  5. Documentation and Record-Keeping
    • Document all communications with parents and team members.
    • Keep detailed records of the IEP meeting, including meeting minutes and decisions made.

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