From Paper to Practice: Ensuring IEP Services Happen as Written

An IEP is more than an informational document, it’s a legally binding contract. Once agreed upon, your school district must provide the services, supports, and placement exactly as written. As a parent, you play a key role in making sure that happens. Here are practical steps you can take:

1. Review the Services Page

Note what’s written for each service:

• Type of service - speech, OT, specialized instruction, etc.

• Delivery model - individual vs. group

• Frequency and duration - 2x per week, 30 minutes per session

• Location - general education classroom, separate setting, etc.

Some flexibility is acceptable (e.g., holidays, testing days, group peers absent), but those instances should be the exception — not the rule. If you need clarification, email the specific service provider working with your child.

2. Request Service Logs

Each related service provider should be keeping logs of when and where they meet with your child. Don’t wait until you have concerns; proactively request to see them to ensure services are being delivered consistently and in alignment with the IEP. If your child has a 1:1 aide, there might not be a service log, so explicitly ask for a list of any dates for which there was not an aide assigned to support them.

3. Ask About Time in General Education vs. Separate Setting

The IEP’s Educational Setting page states the percentage of time your child will spend both in general education and in a separate setting. If your child is spending more time in a separate setting than indicated, there is reason for concern. Often though, you won’t know unless you ask. Check in with your child’s case manager via email if you have any questions or concerns regarding where you child is spending their time throughout the day.

Example: The IEP indicates lunch and recess are in the general education setting, but the student regularly eats in the special education classroom instead. Though this should trigger an IEP team discussion and addition of appropriate supports, it rarely gets mentioned to parents.

In this author’s opinion, every public-school student should spend at least part of their day with typically developing peers. If the IEP states your child is in a separate setting 100% of the time, ask why – and get a response in writing. Request a meeting to discuss what supports your child needs to access the general education setting for at least part of the day and get those supports written into the IEP.

4. Raise Concerns Promptly

If you think services are being missed, or your child is not spending their time in the proper setting, put your concern in writing as soon as possible. A short, kind email to their teacher or case manager can open communication and collaboration.

5. Keep Records & Follow Up

• Save emails and teacher notes.

• Keep copies of IEPs, progress reports, and service logs.

• If concerns continue, request an IEP meeting. (Meetings must be held within 30 days of parent request.)

Final Thoughts

Your child’s IEP is a legal promise, not just paperwork. By tracking services and asking questions when needed, you can help ensure your child receives the education and support they deserve.