Before the IEP
Overview
This section equips educators and families with the foundational knowledge and practical tools needed to navigate the special education process before an Individualized Education Program (IEP) meeting occurs. Learners will explore California’s legal timelines, the structure of disability services across age levels, and effective ways to communicate and collaborate with families and specialists. Through accessible guides, visual tools, and real-world examples, this section builds confidence in advocating for students, fostering equity, and preparing for meaningful, student-centered IEP meetings.
Navigating this Collection:
Learning objectives
- Describe the key steps and timelines in California’s special education process, including referral, evaluation, and IEP development stages.
- Apply strategies for communicating effectively with families and colleagues to support shared understanding, timely advocacy, and inclusive decision-making.
- Demonstrate how to use pre-IEP tools—such as timeline guides, student reflection sheets, and collaborative planning templates—to prepare for compliant and equitable IEP meetings.
Related Collections
Preparing Educators for the IEP
This collection provides educators and school leaders with practical tools to lead and participate in IEP meetings that are collaborative, efficient, and student-centered. It includes guides for establishing group norms, annotated agendas to support inclusive planning, and flyers to promote clarity around team roles and culturally responsive practices. Whether you’re an experienced administrator or a new team member, these resources support strong family-school partnerships and equity-driven decision-making in IEP settings. TPE Alignment TPE 1.2 - Maintain ongoing communication with students and families, including the use of technology ...
Preparing Families for the IEP
This collection provides essential tools to help educators and families navigate the special education system with clarity and confidence. It includes a timeline guide outlining California’s legal requirements for special education services, a user-friendly overview of how disability services work across age groups, and a presentation introducing preschool and elementary IEP processes. Together, these resources support informed collaboration, timely advocacy, and meaningful partnerships between schools and families. Perfect for those new to special education or seeking a practical refresher. TPE Alignment: TPE 1.2 - Maintain ongoing communication ...
Preparing Students for the IEP
This collection includes practical tools to support students and families in navigating special education. From compliance timelines to self-reflection sheets that promote student voice, these resources help build shared understanding, promote equity, and encourage active engagement in the IEP process. TPE Alignment TPE 1.2 - Maintain ongoing communication with students and families, including the use of technology to communicate with and support students and families, and to communicate achievement expectations and student progress. TPE 4.5 - Promote student success by providing opportunities for students to understand and advocate ...