5 IEP Red Flags Parents Shouldn’t Ignore

When to take a closer look—and get help if needed

Parents rely on schools to follow the IEP process, but sometimes things fall through the cracks. If any of these red flags sound familiar, it may be time to step in and seek outside support.

1. The Annual IEP Review Is Late

Federal law requires your child’s IEP to be reviewed at least once a year. If the review is overdue, don't just ask for a new meeting—first, check if this is a one-time oversight or part of a bigger compliance issue. This doesn’t mean a phone call, or a 20 minute meeting. It should be a meeting that goes over the IEP document in its entirety. 

Take Action:
Request your child’s latest IEP and service logs. Look for missed services or outdated information before scheduling a meeting.

2. You’re Not Getting IEP Progress Reports—Or They’re Vague

IEP progress reports should show clearly whether your child’s goals are being met. If you aren’t receiving them, or they lack data (scores, percentages, specific observations), the team can’t legally adjust the IEP based on your child’s actual progress.

Take Action:
Ask the school (in writing) for specific progress data and evidence of service delivery.

3. Progress Reports Show the Same Struggles Every Term

Lack of progress over multiple grading periods means something isn’t working. The school must adapt instruction, supports, or services when a student is not making progress.

Take Action:
Call an IEP team meeting to review what’s been tried and determine what needs to change. 

4. IEP Goals Haven’t Changed in Years

If your child’s goals look identical year after year, that’s a red flag. Goals should evolve with your child’s growth and changing needs.

Take Action:
Review past IEPs. If goals are reused or barely updated, ask for revised goals based on current data. Goals that your child hasn’t met should not just be continued to the next year without changing the service delivery method or the amount of service.

5. Ongoing Discipline Issues—But No Behavior Supports

If your child is being suspended or referred for behavior, the IEP team must assess whether the behavior is disability-related and provide support. Punishment alone is not appropriate.

Take Action:
Request a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) and discuss updated behavior goals or services at the next IEP meeting.

Final Reminder:

If any of these signs apply to your child’s IEP, don’t wait. Bring in support—an advocate—to help you figure out what’s missing and how to move forward. You deserve a team that does more than check boxes.