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Facilitated IEP Meetings:

What Parents with Disabilities Need to Know

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What Is a Facilitated IEP Meeting?

A Facilitated IEP (Individualized Education Program) meeting is a special type of IEP meeting led by a neutral facilitator. Their job is to help the team communicate better, solve problems, and keep the focus on your child’s needs. This can be done in person or via conference call. It is a cost-efficient for all parties and less stressful than due process if a resolution can be reached.

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Why It May Help Parents with Disabilities

Facilitated meetings can provide extra support in these areas:

  • Communication: Helps ensure everyone understands and is heard.

  • Accessibility: Meetings can be adjusted to fit your needs (e.g., sign language interpreters, written materials in accessible formats).

  • Equal Participation: You are a key part of the IEP team. The facilitator helps make sure your voice matters.

  • Resistance: If you feel that the school district personnel isn't providing workable solutions.

 

How can I request one?

A parent or the school district can submit a form to the Office for Dispute Resolution (ODR) by filling out an online form on their site. Both parties must sign the form and agree. This form is available on their website. http://odr-pa.org/

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Your Rights

As a parent with a disability, you have the right to:

  • Accessible communication and materials (e.g., Braille, large print, interpreters)

  • Meeting accommodations (e.g., remote participation, physical access)

  • Be involved in decisions about your child’s education

 

The school must provide reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

How to Request a Facilitated IEP Meeting

  1. Contact your school or district’s special education office.

  2. Put your request in writing and explain why a facilitated meeting would help.

  3. Mention any disability-related accommodations you need.

 

How can I prepare for the meeting? 

  • Make a list of your child's strengths

  • Review the latest evaluation and IEP

  • Write down your biggest concerns

  • Create two lists of goals (one list should be 3-5 non-negotiable and the other list can be 3-5 negotiable goals)

  • Prepare a list of questions to ask

  • Evaluate your child's progress from the past year and list what has been working and what needs improvement.

  • Stay calm and be in a mind set to listen to the solutions presented during the meeting.

 

Tips for a Successful Meeting

  • Bring someone with you if it helps (friend, advocate, interpreter).

  • Ask for a written agenda in advance.

  • Request breaks or extra time if needed.

  • Don’t be afraid to speak up—your input matters.

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