IEP TEAM MEMBERS

Each member of an IEP team brings important information to the meeting. An IEP team must include:

• at least one parent;
• a representative of the local educational agency;
• a regular education teacher of the child if the child is, or may be, participating in the regular education environment;
• a special education teacher or provider of the child;
• an individual who can interpret the instructional implications of assessment results;
• a school district representative capable of authorizing school resources; and
• as appropriate, the student or an interpreter. (20 U.S.C. Section 1414(d)(1)(B)(i), (iv-vi); Cal. Ed. Code Section 56341(b)(1), (5-6).

Parents (20 U.S.C. Section 1414(d)(1)(B)(i); Cal. Ed. Code Sections 56304, 56342.5.):

Parents are an important member of the IEP team. Federal and State law require that parents of a child with a disability must be afforded an opportunity to participate in meetings with respect to the identification, assessment, educational placement, and provision of a FAPE to their child. A parent who has an opportunity to discuss a proposed IEP, and whose concerns are considered by the IEP team, has participated in the IEP process in a meaningful way. (Fuhrmann v. East Hanover Board of Education (3d Cir. 1993) 993 F.2d 1031, 1036.)

Regular Education Teacher (20 U.S.C. Section 1414(d)(1)(B)):

If the student will be placed in a regular education classroom, Federal Law requires the inclusion of at least one regular education teacher on the IEP team. It is necessary for the regular education teacher to be one who has instructed the child in the past or will instruct the child in the future. (M.L. v. Federal Way School District 394 F.3d at p. 643.)

School District Representative:

The school district is required to send a representative who is able to provide or supervise special education and be knowledgeable about the general education curriculum. They must also be knowledgeable about the availability of resources of the school district and have authority to commit the necessary resources to implement the IEP.

Other Members of the IEP Team:

You are entitled to bring other professionals, consultants, and related service providers to the IEP meeting. You can also bring a friend, family member, or other individual to be your extra set of eyes and ears. You can bring an advocate and attorney, if necessary.

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