What is the first step in obtaining an IEP?

• A. Having an evaluation for special education.
• B. Deciding whether the child qualifies for services.
• C. Writing the IEP without testing.
• D. Scheduling a meeting without documentation.

Answer: (A)

The initial step in obtaining an IEP is to conduct a comprehensive evaluation for special education. This assessment gathers detailed information about the child’s strengths, learning needs, and whether there is a disability that affects educational performance. That data is essential because it tells the team whether the child qualifies for services and what supports are appropriate. Without this evaluation, you wouldn’t have the facts needed to decide eligibility or to design an effective IEP. Once the evaluation shows eligibility, the team can determine required services and goals and then hold the IEP meeting to write the plan. Scheduling a meeting or writing the IEP, and even deciding eligibility, all hinge on having the evaluation results beforehand.