Preparing Families for the IEP
Overview
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 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 for strategies that meet their individual learning needs and assist students with specific learning needs to successfully participate in transition plans (e.g., IEP, IFSP, ITP, and 504 plans.)
- TPE 5.8 - Use assessment data, including information from students' IEP, IFSP, ITP, and 504 plans, to establish learning goals and to plan, differentiate, make accommodations and/or modify instruction.
- TPE 6.4 - Demonstrate how and when to involve other adults and to communicate effectively with peers and colleagues, families, and members of the larger school community to support teacher and student learning.
Navigating this Collection:
Printable Tools
Special Ed Timelines in CA
This quick-reference guide outlines the legal timelines that school districts in California must follow when providing special education services. It covers everything from initial evaluations and IEP meetings to triennial reviews and parent-requested meetings. Understanding the timelines helps families and educators advocate effectively. This resource empowers you to know when to expect evaluations, meetings, and services—and what steps to take if delays occur. TPE Alignment: TPE 5.8 - Use assessment data, including information from students' IEP, IFSP, ITP, and 504 plans, to establish learning goals and to ...
Websites
Preparing for the IEP - All About Preschool/Elem PowerPoint Template
This PowerPoint resource introduces families and educators to the key aspects of special education services in preschool and elementary school. It walks through how children qualify for services, what an IEP includes, and how families and educators can work together to support children’s learning and development. Whether you’re just starting your journey with special education or want to better understand how to collaborate with school teams, this guide provides clear, accessible explanations of important processes and terms—all in family-friendly language. TPE Alignment: TPE 1.2 - Maintain ongoing ...