IEP Information

Cover of the annotated IEP guidance document

This annotated document (with footer January 2026) provides guidance on the development of the Individualized Education Program, updates language regarding a new resource (Framework for Access and Belonging (FAB) with Supplementary Aids and Services), and deletion of a resource that no longer exists (Supplementary Aids and Services Toolkit).


 

General Information Related to the IEP

  • The resources explain the federal and state laws that protect the privacy of student educational records, including FERPA guidelines. 
  • Engaging Families This document explores how schools can reframe the IEP process and take active steps to include families as educational partners
  •  These resources outline eligibility criteria and best practices for providing services beyond the regular school year to prevent regression for students with disabilities.
  •  These resources offer regulatory guidance on least restrictive environment and professional development resources on inclusive practices
  •  These resources serve as a starting point for IEP teams, offering information to help acclimate users to prerequisite information required to write or participate in an IEP team meeting and special education process. 
  • Student-Led IEPs Introduces the Student-Led IEP Process, showing how students of any age or ability can take an active role in their own IEP meetings. 
  •  A curated collection of 23 quick-reference guides covering topics such as preparing for an IEP team meeting, assistive technology, classroom management, co-teaching, and family communication- handy tools for special education teachers.

Resources Related to Each Section of the IEP

  • Guidance for pages 1-3 of IEP (video, opens in a new tab) A short training module that walks IEP teams through the introductory pages of the IEP document, including student and team information, before moving into the numbered IEP sections.  (This video is from The Essentials of IEP Writing online course) 
  •    Pages 17-22
  • Pages 23-25
  •    Pages 26-31
  • Pages 32-40
  •   Pages 41-44
  •   Pages 45-54
  •   Pages 55-61
  •   Pages 62-63

 

Training

The Essentials of IEP Writing

An asynchronous online course designed for teachers, building administrators, families, and others

This PaTTAN-developed online course provides instruction on writing an Individualized Education Program (IEP). Through the use of videos, audio PowerPoints and PaTTAN publications, participants will complete modules on common terminology, leading IEP team meetings, and sections I-VIII of the IEP.

  • Self-paced professional development at no cost
  • 15 Act 48 continuing education hours upon completion
  • Considerations to prepare for and lead an IEP team meeting Guidance for each section of the IEP
  • Tips to be a well-informed Local Education Agency (LEA) Representative



Check out the PaTTAN calendar for more training opportunities.