Skip to main content
Departments & Academics » Exceptional Education » Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is an IEP?

An IEP stands for Individualized Education Program. It is a written plan made just for your child if they qualify for special education services. It explains what your child needs to learn and how the school will help. Every child in special education must have an IEP.

What’s in an IEP?

The IEP tells:

  • What your child can do right now (current performance)

  • What your child needs help with

  • Special services your child will receive (like speech, extra reading help, or classroom supports)

  • Goals for your child to work on during the year

  • If and how your child will take state tests (like TCAP or EOC)

  • If your child will learn in a regular classroom, a special classroom, or both

Who Is on the IEP Team?

The IEP team is a group of people who work together to make a plan that’s best for your child. The team includes:

  • You (the parent or guardian)

  • At least one regular education teacher

  • At least one special education teacher

  • A school leader (like a principal or special education supervisor)

  • Someone who can explain test results

  • Others who know your child well (like a counselor, therapist, or nurse)

  • Your child, when it’s appropriate (especially as they get older)

What Are the Steps in the IEP Process?

Here are the 7 main steps:

  1. Referral – A teacher or parent may ask for help because the child is struggling. This starts the special education process.

  2. Pre-Evaluation Review – The team looks at all information about your child and what help has already been tried. If more testing is needed, the school must get your written permission to do evaluations.

  3. Evaluation – The school tests your child in all areas where a disability is suspected (like reading, writing, speech, behavior, or movement). These tests help find out if your child needs special education.

  4. Eligibility – After testing, the IEP team meets to decide if your child:

    • Has a disability under Tennessee or federal rules, and

    • Needs special education to learn.

  5. Writing the IEP – If your child qualifies, the team writes an IEP based on their strengths, needs, and your concerns. It includes services, supports, and yearly goals.

  6. Starting the IEP – The school must get your written permission to start services. The IEP will say when the help will begin and end.

  7. Annual Review – The IEP is reviewed at least once a year. You can ask for a meeting anytime if you have concerns or want to make changes.

What Is a Reevaluation?

A reevaluation helps the team decide if your child still qualifies for special education and what supports are still needed.

  • It must happen at least every 3 years, or sooner if needed.

  • Any IEP team member, including you, can ask for a reevaluation earlier.

  • Sometimes, formal tests are not needed. The team will review all current data to decide what’s best.

Reasons for reevaluation might include:

  • Lack of progress

  • New concerns or information

  • The team is thinking about changing or ending services

When Does a Child Stop Getting an IEP?

A child’s IEP ends when:

  • The team decides the child no longer meets eligibility

  • The child no longer needs special education services

  • The child graduates with a regular high school diploma

  • The child turns 22 before the next school year begins

  • The parent puts in writing that they want to remove the child from special education

Additional Parent FAQs

Can I ask for an IEP meeting anytime?
Yes! Parents can ask for a meeting at any time during the school year if they have questions or concerns.

Can I bring someone with me to the IEP meeting?
Yes! You can bring a friend, family member, advocate, or anyone who knows your child well.

What if I don’t agree with the IEP?
Talk to the team first. If you still disagree, you have rights, including mediation, a complaint process, or a due process hearing. The school should give you a copy of your rights at least once a year.

Will my child be in a regular classroom?
Most children with IEPs spend at least part of their day in a regular class. The IEP team will decide what’s best for your child based on their needs.

 
Frequently Asked Questions