What is IEP Facilitation?

author by Joseph C. Maya on Jul. 31, 2024

Other Education 

Summary: If you have any questions about special education or education law in general, contact one of our attorneys at (203) 221-3100.

IEP Facilitation is an optional process that is not mandated by the IDEA, but can be offered by state educational agencies or school districts to parents and schools. A facilitated IEP meeting functions like any standard IEP meeting, but includes a facilitator who assists in the process. The facilitator's role is to promote communication among team members without making decisions regarding the student's IEP. The primary objective of a facilitated IEP meeting is to create an IEP that is supported by all team members and benefits the student. The key points include:

  • Families and schools agree to have a facilitator present during the IEP meeting.

  • Facilitators ensure open communication and allow all participants to engage in the meeting.

  • In the event of a disagreement, the facilitator can help clarify and resolve issues.

  • The facilitator usually does not address matters unrelated to the IEP.


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