How Often Should an IEP Be Reviewed?| The IEP Attorney

Henry J. Young, Esq.
3 min readOct 8, 2023

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As a Special Education lawyer, I’m often asked, “How often should an Individualized Education Program (IEP) be reviewed?” This question is crucial, as the regular review of an IEP plays a pivotal role in ensuring that students with disabilities receive the support and services they need to succeed academically. In this blog, I’ll provide valuable insights into the frequency of IEP reviews, why they are essential, and how to navigate the process.

The Importance of IEP Reviews

IEPs are tailored plans designed to meet the unique needs of students with disabilities, ensuring they receive an inclusive and appropriate education. These plans outline specific goals, accommodations, and services, all with the aim of helping students achieve academic success. However, to maintain the effectiveness of an IEP, it must be reviewed regularly.

How Often Should an IEP Be Reviewed?

IEP reviews should not be a one-time event. Instead, they should occur at specific intervals to monitor the student’s progress and make necessary adjustments. Here’s a breakdown of how often an IEP should be reviewed:

  1. Annual IEP Review: The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) mandates that schools conduct an annual review of a student’s IEP. This ensures that the plan remains up-to-date and addresses the student’s current needs and goals.
  2. Triennial Evaluation: Every three years, a comprehensive reevaluation of the student’s eligibility for special education services is required under IDEA. This reevaluation may involve assessments, parent input, and a review of existing data to determine if continued eligibility and services are needed.
  3. Additional Reviews as Needed: An IEP meeting can be called at any time for various reasons, such as concerns about the student’s progress, changes in needs, or requests from parents or educators. It’s essential to remember that IEPs are not set in stone; they can be modified to better serve the student.

Why IEP Reviews Matter

IEP reviews are not mere formalities; they are the heart of special education support. Here’s why they are crucial:

  • Student-Centered: IEP reviews keep the focus on the student’s evolving needs and goals, ensuring they receive the appropriate support.
  • Accountability: Regular reviews hold schools accountable for providing the services and accommodations outlined in the IEP.
  • Legal Requirement: Compliance with IDEA is mandatory, and failure to conduct IEP reviews can result in legal issues for the school.

FAQs about Special Education Law and IEPs

  1. What is the difference between an IEP and a 504 plan? An IEP is a comprehensive plan designed for students who have specific learning disabilities, while a 504 plan is intended for students with disabilities that may not require specialized instruction but still need accommodations to access education.
  2. Can I request an IEP review for my child? Yes, parents have the right to request an IEP review at any time if they believe their child’s needs are not being adequately met.
  3. What happens during an IEP review meeting? During an IEP review, the team, which includes parents, educators, and specialists, discusses the student’s progress, goals, and any necessary adjustments to the plan.

Don’t forget Comp Ed

If things get really far behind and you have reason to believe that your child’s needs are not being served by their IEP team, you may be entitled to a Compensatory Education payout. This is especially true if the problem has existed for a year or more.

Conclusion

In the world of special education, the regular review of an IEP is paramount. These reviews ensure that students with disabilities receive the support they need to thrive academically. If you ever have concerns about your child’s IEP or believe it needs adjustment, don’t hesitate to reach out to the school to initiate the review process. Remember, the ultimate goal is to provide every student with the opportunity to succeed.

References and additional reading:

  1. “The Difference Between an IEP and a 504 Plan
  2. “A Guide to the Individualized Education Program
  3. “IEP Meetings: What to Expect

Originally published at https://iep-attorney.com on October 8, 2023.

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Henry J. Young, Esq.
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Special Education Lawyer Serving Pennsylvania Families