Checking In Early: Why an IEP Progress Meeting 6–8 Weeks Into the School Year Matters
As the new school year settles into a rhythm, it’s important to pause and check in on how your child is adjusting to the new school year. Around six to eight weeks into the school year is an ideal time to schedule an IEP progress meeting with your child’s team. This early check-in can make a big difference in ensuring the IEP is working as intended and that your child is receiving the support they need to succeed. We are currently scheduling meetings with schools and families.
Why an Early IEP Check-In Is Important
The start of a school year brings many changes: new teachers, classrooms, schedules, and sometimes new goals. An early IEP meeting allows families and school staff to come together to:
Review the implementation of the IEP and confirm that services are being provided as outlined.
Discuss progress toward goals, identifying areas where your child is thriving or struggling.
Address any barriers that may have surfaced — such as scheduling conflicts, gaps in service delivery, or strategies that aren’t as effective as expected.
Strengthen collaboration between parents, teachers, and related service providers early, before small issues become bigger challenges.
By catching and addressing concerns early, you can prevent months of frustration and help your child make meaningful progress throughout the year.
We help you prepare!
Preparation helps you make the most of this check-in.
We schedule a pre-meeting preparation call or virtual meeting to discuss and address concerns.
Please share any communication you have with the school with us.
Questions or concerns about any supports, accommodations, or goals that may not fit.
Any updated information from outside providers, such as therapists or specialists, that may be relevant to school supports.
What to Expect from the Discussion
The tone of this meeting should be collaborative and proactive, not adversarial. The goal isn’t to rewrite the entire IEP but to make sure it’s functioning effectively. Topics might include:
Adjusting the frequency or duration of services if your child needs more or less support.
Clarifying roles and responsibilities among team members.
Adding supports or accommodations to address new or emerging needs.
Reviewing data collection and progress monitoring systems to ensure they’re accurate and helpful.
When Changes Are Needed
If the team determines that changes are necessary, these can often be made through an IEP amendment without waiting for the annual review. Prompt updates keep your child’s plan responsive and relevant.
The Takeaway
An IEP progress meeting six to eight weeks into the school year is one of the most effective ways to ensure your child is on track. Early communication, collaboration, and data-driven adjustments help create a strong foundation for success — and demonstrate that the IEP is a living document designed to meet your child’s evolving needs.
