How Do I Document My Disagreement with the IEP?

Parents are mandatory members of the IEP team. An IEP should never be offered to a parent in a “take it or leave it” manner, and cannot be developed in a meeting without the parent there. However, there are times when Parents and the school disagree and agreements cannot be reached in an IEP meeting. Parent signature or agreement is not required for an IEP to be valid in Washington. Schools are required to issue a Prior Written Notice (“PWN”) after the IEP meeting documenting important decisions made at the meeting, and any options that were considered and rejected. This notice must include the reasons why these options were rejected and the information used to make that decision. The PWN is an important way for you to make sure your disagreement is documented. Write an email to your child’s case manager after the IEP meeting stating the concerns you would like documented in the PWN.

There are many ways to dispute the IEP in Washington: OSPI Community Complaint, ask for a Facilitated IEP Meeting or Mediation, or file a due process complaint against the school district.

*The following is intended to provide information and not legal advice. Please consult with an attorney regarding your individual situation or legal matter.