How to Get an IEP in California: A Step-by-Step Guide for Parents

At a Glance: The IEP Process

1. Submit a written request for a free school evaluation.
2. Attend the eligibility meeting where the team decides if your child qualifies.
3. Work with the team to create a legally binding IEP that includes goals, services, and accommodations.
4. Sign the IEP and monitor your child’s progress.
5. If your child is not eligible, explore 504 Plans, independent evaluations, or mediation.

1. Request a Free School Evaluation

The first step is to ask the school district for a special education evaluation. You do not need to request the IEP itself.

• Put your request in writing and keep a copy for your records.
• The school must respond within 15 days and cannot evaluate without your consent.
• Parents may also pay for a private evaluation and share the results with the district. Although this may be taken into account, the district will want to do their own evaluation.

At Galt Advocacy we offer guidance on drafting strong evaluation requests and tracking district deadlines so nothing slips through the cracks.

2. Determine Eligibility

After testing, the IEP team decides if your child qualifies for special education under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Two questions must be answered:

1. Does your child have one or more of the 13 disability categories recognized by Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), such as a specific learning disability, ADHD, autism, or speech and language impairment?
2. Does the disability affect educational performance enough to require special education services?

If the answer is yes to both, the school schedules an eligibility meeting to review results and plan next steps.

3. Build the IEP Team

An IEP is created by a collaborative team that includes:

• Parents or guardians
• At least one general education teacher
• A special education teacher
• A district representative
• A professional who can interpret evaluation results
• Specialists such as a speech-language pathologist or occupational therapist when needed
• Your child, when appropriate

At Galt Advocacy we offer experienced advocates who attend IEP meetings with you to ensure that every need is addressed and all services are documented.

4. Write the Plan: Goals, Services, and Supports

The team works together to create a legally binding document that must include:

• Measurable annual goals tailored to your child’s needs
• Details of specialized instruction and related services such as speech therapy or counseling
• A list of accommodations and modifications like extended test time or assistive technology
• A plan for progress monitoring and reporting

Once a child is found eligible, the district must hold the initial IEP meeting within the 60-day assessment timeline. In some cases, such as after an eligibility meeting, California law requires the plan to be finalized within 30 days of that determination.

5. Review, Sign, and Monitor

Once the IEP is finalized and signed, the school must provide all services exactly as written. Teachers and service providers track your child’s progress toward each goal.

• The IEP must be reviewed at least once a year, but parents can request a meeting at any time.
• Keep copies of evaluations, reports, and all communication to stay organized.

At Galt Advocacy we offer ongoing support to help parents request updates, interpret progress data, and keep schools accountable.

6. If Your Child Is Not Eligible

If the school decides your child does not qualify for special education, you still have options:

• 504 Plan: Provides accommodations such as seating changes or extra time on tests without special education services.
• Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE): An outside specialist conducts a new evaluation.
• Mediation or Due Process: Parents can formally dispute the school’s decision.

At Galt Advocacy we offer mediation services and assistance with independent evaluations so you can pursue every possible avenue for your child.

7. Parent Rights and California Timelines

Key deadlines to remember:

• 15 days for the school to respond to a written evaluation request
• 60 days to complete the evaluation, not counting school breaks
• 30 days to hold the first IEP meeting after eligibility is confirmed

Parents have the right to access all records, bring advocates or attorneys to meetings, and request changes whenever necessary.

Galt Advocacy: Your Partner in the Process

When your child has special needs, it is important to have someone in your corner who knows the laws and procedures. At Galt Advocacy we offer:

• Attendance at IEP meetings
• Help identifying the right services your child qualifies for
• Mediation between families and schools
• Parent education so you can advocate effectively on your own

Our goal is to ensure that every child receives the support and opportunities they deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an IEP?

A legally binding plan that lists the special education services, supports, and accommodations a student with disabilities will receive.

Who is on the IEP team?

Parents, teachers, a district representative, someone to interpret evaluation results, and specialists when needed. Students often join as they get older.

How often is an IEP reviewed?

At least once a year, though parents or schools can request a meeting at any time.

How can I prepare for an IEP meeting?

Review evaluations and progress reports, list your child’s strengths and needs, and write down questions in advance.

What if I disagree with the IEP?

You can request another meeting, file a state complaint, pursue mediation, or request a due process hearing.