Questions to ask at your child’s IEP meeting in Ohio

Walking into your child’s IEP meeting can feel overwhelming. There’s a room full of professionals, a stack of paperwork, and a lot riding on the decisions made. It’s okay to feel that way – most parents do.

But here’s what matters most: you have every right to ask questions. In fact, asking the right questions at your child’s IEP meeting in Ohio is one of the most powerful things you can do for them.

This guide gives you the questions you need – before the meeting and during it – so you can walk in feeling ready.

What is an IEP meeting, and why does it matter?

An IEP stands for Individualized Education Program. It’s a legal document that outlines the support and services your child will receive in school.

Ohio schools are required to hold an IEP meeting at least once a year. But you can request one at any time if you have concerns. The meeting includes teachers, specialists, school administrators – and you. Your voice carries real weight in that room.If you’re still learning how the process works, our guide to the IEP process steps in Ohio is a good place to start.

Questions to ask before the IEP meeting

Don’t wait until you’re sitting at the table. These questions help you go in prepared.

1. Can I get a copy of the draft IEP before the meeting?
   You have the right to review it ahead of time. Ask for it at least a few days early so you can read it without feeling rushed.
2. Who will be at the meeting?
   Knowing who’s in the room helps. Ask for names and roles so you’re not caught off guard.
3. Can I bring someone with me?
   Yes, you can. That might be a spouse, a family member, or an advocate. 
4. What data are you using to measure my child’s progress?
   Ask this before you arrive so you can compare what you see at home with what the school is tracking.
5. How do I request an evaluation if I think my child needs one?
   If you’re not sure your child already has an IEP, or if you think they need a new evaluation, ask about next steps. Our blog on how to get an IEP in Ohio walks you through that process.

Questions to ask during the IEP meeting

Start by grounding yourself in your child’s actual experience. Two questions that help with that:

1. Can you walk me through what a typical day looks like for my child?
   It’s easy to get lost in paperwork and data. Before diving in, ask the team to describe your child’s day – what classes they’re in, who they see, where they spend their time. You’ll spot gaps between what’s written in the plan and what’s actually happening.
2. Could we walk through the IEP plan piece by piece?
   Don’t let the meeting rush past sections you don’t understand. Ask the team to slow down and go through each part together.

Questions about your child’s goals

1. Can you explain each goal in plain language?
   IEP goals are often written in technical terms. Ask the team to explain what each goal means and how it connects to your child’s daily life.
2. How were these goals chosen and how is my child doing on them?
   Goals should come from your child’s current needs and evaluation data – not a one-size-fits-all template.
3. Is this a SMART goal?
   SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. It’s okay to ask this directly. A well-written IEP goal should be clear enough that anyone on the team – including you – can tell whether your child is hitting it.
4. How is this goal measured, and how will I know my child is making progress?
   Ask how progress is tracked and how often you’ll get an update. You shouldn’t have to wait until next year’s meeting to find out if something isn’t working.
5. What changes in goals is the team recommending – and why?
   Before agreeing to any updates, ask what’s driving the change. Is it because your child met the goal? Because it wasn’t working? Understanding the “why” helps you make a better decision.
6. Can you explain how what you’re seeing from my child is different from other kids in the classroom?
   This isn’t about comparing your child – it’s about understanding the gap the IEP is designed to close. When you see the difference clearly, the goals make more sense.
7. What happens if my child doesn’t meet a goal?
   This is a fair and important question. A good team will have a clear answer.

Questions about services and placement

1. What services is my child receiving, and how often?
   Get the specifics – how many minutes per week, which specialists are involved, and where services take place.
2. Is this the least restrictive environment for my child?
   Ohio law requires that children be educated in the least restrictive setting appropriate for them. Ask the team to explain why the recommended placement is the right fit.
3. What type of IEP does my child have?
   IEPs aren’t all the same. Some children need a full-time specialized setting. Others need support within a general education classroom. Understanding your child’s IEP type helps you know what to expect. Learn more about the types of IEPs available to Ohio students.
4. Will my child be in a general education class for any part of the day?
   If so, ask how their support will work in that setting.

Questions about your role

1. What can I do at home to support these goals?
   The best IEPs are a team effort. Ask for specific strategies you can use between now and the next meeting.
2. How do I contact the team if I have questions or concerns?
   Get names, email addresses, and expected response times before you leave the room.
3. What happens if I disagree with something in the IEP?
   You have rights here. You can ask to table a decision, request more time, or formally disagree. The school must document your concerns. You do not have to sign anything you’re not comfortable with.

You don’t have to figure this out alone

According to the U.S. Department of Education, parents are equal members of their child’s IEP team – not just observers. That means your input is legally required to be considered.

At EA Schools, we’ve sat with hundreds of Ohio families going through this process. We know it can feel like a lot. What we’ve seen is that parents who come prepared – who ask questions and push for clarity – get better outcomes for their children.

If you’re not sure whether the current plan is working, or if you’re looking for a school environment built specifically for students who learn differently, talk to EA Schools about what your child needs.

What to do after the meeting

The meeting ending doesn’t mean your work is done. Before you leave, ask:

1. When will these changes take effect?
   Get a specific date – not “soon” or “in the next few weeks.” Write it down so you can follow up if nothing changes.
2. How will my child be told about any changes to their program?
   Your child deserves to understand what’s happening and why. Ask the team how they plan to communicate changes in a way that makes sense for your child’s age and needs.
3. Can I get a copy of the notes or documents the team referenced today?
   If a teacher or specialist pulled out data, assessments, or progress notes during the meeting, you can ask for a copy. Having that information helps you stay informed between meetings

Then once you’re home:

• Read through the final IEP carefully before signing
• Keep a copy for your records
• Write down any follow-up questions that come up
• Check in with the team a few weeks in – don’t wait for the next annual meeting if something isn’t working

You’re your child’s best advocate

IEP meetings can feel intimidating. But the more you know – and the more you ask – the better the support your child gets.

Ohio families deserve a clear path forward. At EA Schools, we’re here to help you find it.

Schedule a tour of Education Alternatives in your area today and see firsthand how we support students with IEPs across Ohio.