Let Arloa Help You Write the Perfect Letter to Request an IEP Meeting

As a parent, you want to ensure your child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) keeps pace with their growth and changing needs. But when should you request a meeting outside of the standard annual review? Crafting the right letter to make that request can feel overwhelming—but with Arloa, it doesn’t have to.

Our simple, guided tools make it easy to communicate with your school. In just a few clicks, you can create a professional, effective letter that addresses your concerns and gets the process started.

When Should You Request an IEP Meeting?

IEP meetings don’t have to wait until the annual review. If you notice changes in your child’s needs or feel the current IEP isn’t working, you have the right to call for a meeting anytime. 

Here are some common reasons parents request an IEP meeting outside the regular schedule:

Progress Concerns

If your child isn’t making expected progress toward their IEP goals or is experiencing regression, it’s time to request a meeting. Examples include:

• Falling behind in specific subjects.

• Struggling to maintain learned skills.

• Behavioral concerns that aren’t improving.

Services or Support Changes

When the services outlined in your child’s IEP no longer seem adequate, or new needs arise, an IEP meeting can address:

• The need for additional therapy sessions.

• Changes in accommodation requirements.

• Support for new behavioral challenges.

Major Changes

Significant changes in your child’s life or health may require adjustments to their IEP. Consider requesting a meeting if there are:

• New medical diagnoses.

• Changes in medication impacting learning.

• Family circumstances affecting your child’s education.

Goal Updates

IEP goals should evolve with your child’s progress. If goals have been met or are no longer appropriate, it’s time for a review. This could include:

• Goals being achieved earlier than expected.

• Goals that are too challenging and need revision.

• New skills emerging that require attention.

Transition Planning

As your child moves through key educational milestones, such as transitioning to middle school, high school, or post-secondary preparation, request an IEP meeting to ensure smooth planning. Consider:

• Preparing for life skills development.

• Setting up post-secondary goals and supports.

By staying proactive and addressing concerns as they arise, you ensure your child’s IEP stays effective and aligned with their needs.

Need help drafting your request?

Arloa’s easy-to-use tools can guide you through the process of writing and sending a professional, personalized letter to your school. Let us help you take the next step with confidence!

If any of these apply to your situation, requesting an IEP meeting is a proactive way to advocate for your child.

How Arloa Makes It Simple

With Arloa’s letter-writing tool, you can create and send a polished, professional request for an IEP meeting in minutes.

Step 1: Go to the School Communication Section

Log in to your Arloa account and head to the “School Communication” section. This is your dedicated space for crafting clear and effective messages to your school team.

Step 2: Select “Request an IEP Meeting”

Choose the option to “Request an IEP Meeting” to access our specialized tool.

Step 3: Follow the Guide to Customize Your Letter

Our step-by-step guide helps you create a letter tailored to your specific concerns.

• Pre-filled templates: Start with a professionally crafted template to save time.

• Personalized prompts: Answer a few questions about why you’re requesting the meeting, such as missed services, new challenges, or progress concerns.

• Clear, polished language: Your letter will meet IDEA requirements while remaining collaborative and professional.

Step 4: Send Your Letter Directly

Once your letter is complete, you can email it to your school’s IEP team directly through Arloa, or send yourself.

Schools are generally required to respond to your request for an IEP meeting without unnecessary delay and must typically hold the meeting within 30 calendar days of receiving your written request, though exact timelines can vary by state. 

If you don’t hear back promptly, following up with the school or the district’s special education office is recommended.

How to Prepare for an IEP Meeting

Once your IEP meeting is scheduled, preparation is key to making the most of it. Here’s how to get ready:

1. Review Your Child’s Current IEP

Familiarize yourself with their current goals, accommodations, and services. Highlight areas of concern or sections you’d like to discuss.

2. Gather Supporting Documents

Bring any records that illustrate your concerns or support your requests, such as:

• Recent progress reports or grades.

• Work samples showing areas of struggle or success.

• Evaluations, assessments, or new diagnoses.

3. Write Down Your Questions and Goals

Make a list of specific concerns and the outcomes you hope to achieve, such as additional services, changes to goals, or improved accommodations.

4. Consider Bringing Support

If you’re feeling unsure or want backup, invite a trusted advocate, friend, or family member to attend the meeting with you.

5. Stay Collaborative and Solution-Focused

Approach the meeting as a team effort. Staying calm and focused on solutions can help foster a positive, productive discussion.

Why Choose Arloa for Your School Communication?

• Save Time: No need to research templates or worry about wording.

• Be Confident: Our tools ensure your letter is legally compliant and professional.

• Stay Organized: Keep a digital record of all your communications in one place.

Don’t Wait—Take Action Today

Your child’s needs can’t always wait for the next scheduled IEP review. Arloa empowers you to take control of the process and advocate effectively for your child.

👉 Log in to Arloa now to request your IEP meeting and feel confident knowing you’re taking the right steps for your child’s success.

How to Know When It’s Time to Request an IEP Meeting and Advocate for Your Child’s Success