IEP Cycle Poster
IDEA Framework Guide • Special Education Resource
The Annual IEP Cycle
Annual & Triennial Process
1
Referral & Request
Formal written request initiates the special education evaluation process.
- Initiated by parent, teacher, or MTSS / RTI intervention team
- Prior Written Notice (PWN) provided to guardians
- Informed parental consent required before testing starts
District Response: 15–30 Days Consent Secured
2
Comprehensive Evaluation
Holistic, non-discriminatory diagnostic assessment in all areas of suspected disability.
- Multi-tiered data: academic, cognitive, speech, OT, & behavior
- Classroom observations and direct input from family
- Conducted in student's native language without bias
60-Day Federal Timeline MDT Report
3
Eligibility Determination
The IEP team reviews evaluation results to satisfy IDEA's 2-prong eligibility test.
- Prong 1: Meets criteria for 1 of 13 IDEA disability categories
- Prong 2: Disability adversely impacts educational performance
- Requires specialized instruction (SDI) & related services
Full Team Consensus 2-Prong Test
4
IEP Plan Development
The team drafts a personalized legal document tailored to the student's unique needs.
- PLAAFP: Baseline academic & functional performance levels
- SMART Goals: Specific, measurable, annual benchmarks
- Accommodations, modifications, service minutes, & LRE
Within 30 Days of Eligibility Legal Blueprint
5
Service Delivery & Monitoring
Plan enacted with fidelity; progress is tracked continuously against targeted goals.
- Specialized instruction delivered by certified staff & specialists
- General ed accommodations implemented consistently in class
- Routine data collection and periodic parent progress reports
Ongoing Fidelity Tracking Quarterly Reports
6
Annual Review & Triennial
The full IEP team convenes annually to analyze outcomes and revise goals.
- Annual Review: Held every 365 days to update goals & placement
- Amendments: Revisions made if progress stalls or needs change
- Triennial Reevaluation: Every 3 years to reassess eligibility
Mandatory 365-Day Cycle Cycle Repeats
Core IDEA Legal Pillars Every Educator Must Protect
34 C.F.R. § 300
FAPE Free Appropriate Public Education
LRE Least Restrictive Environment
Parent Rights Meaningful Participation & Consent
Safeguards Prior Written Notice & Due Process