5 Red Flags Your Child’s IEP Isn’t Working, And What You Can Do About It

Parents often assume that once an Individualized Education Program (IEP) is in place, their child will automatically receive the services and supports they need. In reality, even well-intentioned school districts can fail to implement services properly, monitor progress, or address a student’s unique needs. Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), every child is entitled to a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE).

Below are five warning signs your child’s IEP may not be meeting their needs.

1. Your Child Is Not Making Meaningful Progress

IDEA requires that IEP goals be tailored so a student can make progress appropriate to their circumstances. If goals remain unchanged year after year, or your child is falling further behind, this may indicate the IEP is not appropriate.

2. Services Are Not Being Delivered as Written

Missed services, shortened sessions, or changes without an IEP meeting are violations of IDEA. Schools must implement the IEP as written unless the team, including you, modifies it.

3. Behavior Is Getting Worse, Not Better

Escalating behaviors, discipline issues, or school refusal may indicate unmet needs. Under IDEA, schools may be required to conduct a Functional Behavioral Assessment (FBA) and create a Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP).

4. Communication From the School Is Poor

Long delays, vague responses, or defensive attitudes from staff can signal deeper problems in service delivery or resources.

5. Your Concerns Are Dismissed or Ignored

If the team responds with “let’s wait and see” or “we’ve never done it that way,” they may not be fully considering your child’s individual needs.

What You Can Do Next

California parents have the right to:

• Request an IEP meeting at any time
• Request new evaluations or an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE)
• Receive Prior Written Notice
• File a compliance complaint
• Request mediation or due process

If you have concerns about your child’s services, you do not have to navigate the process alone. With the right support, your child can receive the services they are legally entitled to.