What is the purpose of the IEP meeting and who should attend?

• A. To evaluate general education curriculum alignment only.
• B. Review progress, set goals, and determine services; attendees include parent/guardian, SPED teacher, general ed teacher, school psychologist, administrator, and related service providers as needed.
• C. To select a school lunch program.
• D. To develop school scheduling for the next year.

Answer: (B)

The main idea is that the IEP meeting brings together the student’s team to review current progress, set measurable annual goals, and determine the services and supports the student will receive. In this meeting, the team discusses the student’s present levels of performance, whether progress toward goals is being made, and what adjustments or additions to services, accommodations, or placement are needed to help the student succeed. The typical attendees include the parent or guardian, the special education teacher, the general education teacher, a school administrator or district representative, and a professional who can interpret assessments (often a school psychologist). Related service providers, such as a speech-language pathologist, occupational therapist, or physical therapist, should participate as needed based on the student’s services. The student may also attend when appropriate and with permission. This combination ensures a collaborative, informed decision about what supports the student needs to reach their goals. The other options miss the core purpose of reviewing progress, setting goals, and specifying services, or describe unrelated tasks like lunch programs or scheduling.