IEP Meetings at MSD
If your child receives special education services under federal law, they have an Individualized Education Program (IEP). At the Maryland School for the Deaf, parents and guardians are essential members of their child's IEP team. Your input and participation shape your child's educational plan.
Each student has at least one IEP meeting each year, and you may be invited to other types of meetings depending on your child's needs.
Types of IEP Meetings
New Student IEP Meeting/Conference
For students who are new to MSD—whether moving from another Maryland school, from out of state, or starting school for the first time—this meeting ensures all necessary documents are in place and any needed assessments are planned. Most new students can begin attending school the next day.
Initial IEP
This is your child's very first IEP meeting, either following an IFSP (Individualized Family Service Plan) or after being identified for special education services. If your child moves to Maryland with an IEP from another state, state law requires the team to review eligibility. At this meeting, the team shares assessments, reviews draft goals and objectives, and requests your signature to begin services.
Annual Review IEP
A yearly meeting to review your child's progress, update goals, and develop a new IEP for the coming year.
Re-evaluation Planning IEP
Every three years (or sooner if needed), the team discusses whether updated assessments are needed to determine continued eligibility for special education. Sometimes no new testing is needed, and this meeting may be combined with the Re-evaluation Determination IEP.
Re-evaluation Determination IEP
At this meeting, the team reviews any new assessment results and determines whether your child continues to meet eligibility requirements. The team also updates goals and objectives. This meeting often serves as the Annual Review IEP for the next year.
Periodic Review IEP
Requested by a teacher or parent when important new information needs to be discussed and may lead to changes in the IEP.
IEP Addendum
Used for small changes that all team members agree to. No formal meeting is required; paperwork can be sent home for your signature.
Note: Combining different types of meetings is common and can be an efficient way to address your child's needs.
Your Role as a Parent or Guardian
We encourage you to attend all IEP meetings. If you cannot make it, please contact us. We can explore alternate ways for you to participate or work with you to reschedule.
At MSD:
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- Your child's teacher is your best contact for curriculum and classroom-related questions.
- Your child's IEP Coordinator is your go-to for questions about IEP laws, policies, and procedures.
If you have additional questions about IEP processes, please contact:
Kevin Strachan, Supervisor of IEP Services