What this means
The IEP team must review the child's IEP periodically, but not less than annually, to determine whether the annual goals are being achieved, and revise the IEP as appropriate.
Revision may consider progress toward the annual goals, progress in the general education curriculum where appropriate, the results of any reevaluation, information about the child provided to or by the parents, the child's anticipated needs, and other matters.
An annual review is not simply writing another year of goals. The information you have collected throughout the year can add an important part of the picture — progress reports, school communication, changes you noticed, strengths and successes, questions raised, evaluation information and information from home. You do not need to bring everything you have saved; focus on what is relevant to the discussion.
The annual review is a required minimum review point, not necessarily the only time the IEP can be discussed or changed. If circumstances change or concerns arise about progress, services or needs, you can contact the school rather than waiting for the next annual review. Changes can be made through an IEP team meeting, and after the annual meeting the parent and the school may also agree to amend the IEP through a written document without convening the full team.
What you may see
- A meeting notice with the date, time, location, purpose and who is expected to attend
- A review of progress on current goals
- Proposed goals, services and accommodations for the coming year
- Draft materials in some districts — federal IDEA does not require every school to provide a draft IEP before the meeting
Follow the thread
- Present levels — what has changed?
- Annual goals — what was achieved?
- Progress information — what does it show over time?
- Services and supports — what is helping?
- Accommodations — do they still fit?
- Participation and access — anything to discuss?
- Evaluations and transition — anything new?
Questions to consider
- Are draft materials available in advance?
- Which goals were achieved, and what does the progress information show?
- What is changing for next year, and why?
- What should we do if something is not working before the next annual review?
- Do I want to invite someone with knowledge or special expertise regarding my child?
What you may want to write down
- Your three or four most important points for the year
- Dates of progress reports and what they showed
- Decisions made, and who is responsible for each
Sources and review
Last reviewed: September 10, 2026. This page was reviewed by IEP Pathway against the sources below. State, district and school practices can differ from the federal baseline, so confirm local procedures with your school or state education agency.
Sources
Important note
This site provides educational information, organizational tools and printable resources. It is not legal advice, and it is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Education, any school district, government agency, attorney, law firm or advocacy organization. For advice about your specific situation, consider consulting a qualified professional.