While not required by law, it is customary and best practice for schools to prepare draft IEPs and goals before the ARD meeting.

• Parents are encouraged to ask for a draft copy before the meeting to review and prepare.
• Ask for the draft copy of the IEP goals, proposed services, any supplemental documents, behavior plans, etc., to be delivered to you at least five school days before the meeting.
• This does not mean the school is “predetermining” services—a misconception often used by advocates to create unnecessary conflict, which results in hostility between parents and schools, leading to more meetings, wasted time, and increased costs for parents – all while delaying the needed services for the one person everyone is meeting – the child.

In reality, schools have both the right and the responsibility to plan for the meeting. After all, who goes into a meeting without a plan?

The draft helps everyone collaborate more effectively and ensures time is used efficiently during the ARD.

To allow for a thorough and accurate review:

• Please submit your FIE and (if available) draft IEP/goals two weeks before your scheduled ARD meeting, if possible.
• Insight IQ requires a minimum 48-hour turnaround after receiving all records to prepare your review and coaching session.
• If you only received the FIE the required five school days before the meeting, we will work with you to review and prepare as much as possible within that window.

The sooner we receive your documents, the more comprehensive and detailed your review can be — but we’ll meet you where you are.