Navigating the IEP Process in California: A Parent’s Guide

If you’re a parent in California and your child has been referred for special education services, you may feel like you’ve entered a world full of acronyms, timelines, and legal terms. It can be overwhelming! Understanding the basics of the IEP process will help you feel informed and confident when advocating for your child.

This guide breaks down key terms, important timelines, and essential rights every California parent should know.

What is an IEP?

IEP stands for Individualized Education Program.It’s a legally binding document developed for students who qualify for special education under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

The IEP outlines:

• Your child’s present levels of performance (academic and functional)

• Annual goals (what your child is expected to achieve within a year)

• Services and supports (e.g., speech therapy, occupational therapy, specialized instruction)

• Accommodations and modifications (changes to how learning is delivered or how your child shows their knowledge)

• Placement (where your child will receive services)

The IEP is developed by a team—which includes you as the parent. Your voice is critical in shaping this plan.

Key Acronyms You’ll Hear

When stepping into IEP meetings, you’ll encounter a lot of shorthand. Here are some you’ll want to recognize right away:

• IDEA – Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (federal law governing special education)

• IEP – Individualized Education Program

• FAPE – Free Appropriate Public Education (your child’s right under IDEA)

• LRE – Least Restrictive Environment (we’ll explain below)

• SST – Student Study Team (a group that reviews concerns before special education testing)

• OT – Occupational Therapy

• PT – Physical Therapy

• SLP – Speech-Language Pathologist

What is LRE?

LRE stands for Least Restrictive Environment.

By law, children with disabilities should learn alongside peers without disabilities to the maximum extent appropriate.This means schools must first consider general education settings with supports before placing a child in a more restrictive environment (like a special day class or separate school).

The question to ask in every meeting:

“Is this the least restrictive placement where my child can still make meaningful progress?”

California IEP Timelines You Need to Know

In California, there are specific timelines—written in state education code—that school districts must follow. Knowing these will help you hold the team accountable.

Step	Timeline	Legal Reference
School receives your written request for an evaluation	District must provide you with an assessment plan within 15 calendar days (excluding school breaks longer than 5 days)	CA Education Code § 56321(a)
You sign and return the assessment plan	Assessments must be completed and an IEP meeting held within 60 calendar days (excluding school breaks longer than 5 days)	CA Education Code § 56344(a)
Annual IEP review	Must occur at least once every 12 months	CA Education Code § 56343(d)
Reevaluation (Triennial)	Must occur at least once every 3 years unless waived by parent and district	CA Education Code § 56381(a)

Why this matters:If timelines aren’t followed, your child’s services could be delayed. By tracking these dates, you ensure your child’s education isn’t put on hold.

Virtual Speech Solutions is here to guide you every step of the way.

📞 Call us: 909-654-4062

🌐 Visit us: www.virtualspeechsolutions.com

📧 Email us: jaclyn@virtualspeechsolutions.com