How to Read a Progress Monitoring Graph

By: Jamie Kirschner, CEO/ Founder

Progress monitoring graphs are used to track your child’s progress toward IEP goals over time. They show whether the supports and instruction in place are helping your child make meaningful progress. Each point on the graph represents data collected by the school, such as accuracy on a reading probe, words read correctly, or correct responses on math problems.

The horizontal (bottom) line usually represents time, such as weeks or months, while the vertical (side) line shows your child’s performance level, like a percentage or score. The line that connects the dots is your child’s actual performance trend. A separate line, often straight or dashed, shows the goal or expected rate of progress.

If your child’s data points are consistently at or above the goal line, they are on track to meet the goal. If the points are below the goal line or trending downward, it may indicate that the current instruction or supports are not effective enough. When this happens, the IEP team should meet to review the data, discuss whether changes to instruction, goals, or services are needed, and determine what interventions may help your child get back on track.

When reviewing these graphs, focus on patterns rather than single data points. Occasional dips are normal, but a consistent lack of progress over several data points means the plan needs adjustment. Always ask the team to explain how often data are collected, how accuracy is ensured, and how the information is used to make instructional decisions.