Guide · California

Your first IEP meeting in California: what happens and what you can ask for

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The evaluation is done and the school wants to meet. A lot of parents walk into that first meeting not knowing who will be there, what will be decided, or whether they're supposed to sign something on the spot. Here's what to expect, and what you're allowed to ask for.

Who will be at the table

Federal law says the team has to include you, at least one of your child's general education teachers, a special education teacher, someone from the district who can commit resources, and someone who can explain what the evaluation results mean. Your child can attend when it makes sense (34 CFR §300.321).

You can bring people too: a partner, a friend, an advocate, or a therapist who knows your child (§300.321(a)(6)). If a required team member wants to skip the meeting, they need your agreement in writing (§300.321(e)).

Before the meeting: what you can ask for

• A time that works for you. The meeting has to be at a mutually agreed time and place, and the notice has to say who's coming and why (34 CFR §300.322(a), (b)).
• A phone or video option if you can't be there in person (§300.322(c); §300.328).
• An interpreter if English isn't your first language or you're deaf. The school arranges it (§300.322(e)).
• Your child's records. The school has to let you see them before any IEP meeting (34 CFR §300.613). Asking for the evaluation report ahead of time is the single most useful thing you can do.

The rules in California

In California the school has to give you your child's records within 5 business days of your request, and before the IEP meeting (Cal. Educ. Code §56504). Ask for the assessment reports that way. You can also audio-record the IEP meeting if you tell the school at least 24 hours ahead (§56341.1(g)). The meeting itself is due within 60 calendar days of your consent, not counting summer or breaks longer than 5 school days.

At the meeting

The team goes over the evaluation, decides whether your child is eligible, and, if so, writes the IEP: goals, services, how many minutes and where, and accommodations. You're a full member of the team, and the team has to consider your concerns.

You don't have to sign at the table. Before the school can start special education services for the first time, it needs your written consent (34 CFR §300.300(b)). It's fine to say you'd like to take the IEP home and read it first. You can also agree to services while writing down the parts you disagree with.

After the meeting

• Get your copy. The school has to give you a copy of the IEP at no cost (§300.322(f)).
• Write a short summary email. What was agreed, who will do what, and by when. If something was promised out loud but isn't in the IEP, this is how it gets on the record.
• Put the next dates on your calendar. The IEP is reviewed at least once a year, and your child is reevaluated at least every three years. New York · Pennsylvania · Illinois · California will work out those dates.

General information based on the published rules, not legal advice. Last checked November 8, 2026.