If your child qualifies for special education services, an IEP will become one of the most important documents in their educational life. Here's what it actually is and how it works in Michigan.
What an IEP Is
An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a legally binding document developed for a student who qualifies for special education services under federal law (IDEA — the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act). It outlines a student's current levels of performance, specific measurable goals, the services and supports the school will provide, and how progress will be measured.
How a Child Qualifies for an IEP
Qualifying for an IEP requires two things: a documented disability that falls under one of IDEA's recognized categories (autism is one of these categories), and a demonstrated need for specialized instruction as a result of that disability — meaning the disability must be shown to affect educational performance in a way that requires specially designed instruction, not just any diagnosis alone.
The Evaluation Process
To determine eligibility, your school district conducts a Multidisciplinary Evaluation Team (MET) evaluation — a comprehensive assessment covering relevant areas based on your child's specific needs (academic, communication, social-emotional, and others as applicable). You can request this evaluation directly from your school district in writing at any time you have a concern; districts are required to respond within specific timelines under Michigan special education rules.
What's Actually in an IEP
A complete IEP typically includes: your child's present levels of academic and functional performance, specific, measurable annual goals, the special education and related services to be provided (and how often), any accommodations or modifications needed in the general classroom, and information about how and where services will be delivered.
The IEP Team
An IEP is developed collaboratively by a team that includes you as the parent, your child's teacher(s), a special education representative, and other relevant professionals (school psychologist, speech-language pathologist, and others depending on your child's needs). You are a full, equal member of this team — not just an invited observer.
How Often IEPs Are Reviewed
IEPs must be formally reviewed at least annually, though they can be revisited more often if needed. A full re-evaluation to confirm continued eligibility typically happens at least every three years.
Your Role as a Parent
You have the right to participate meaningfully in every IEP meeting, request changes to the plan, disagree with proposed goals or services, and request an evaluation or IEP review at any point you have a concern — not just at scheduled review times. We cover how to use this role effectively in Advocating for Your Child at an IEP Meeting.
Getting Support Navigating This System
Michigan Alliance for Families offers free parent mentoring and support specifically for navigating the IEP process, and can be a valuable resource alongside anything your school team provides directly.
For Kentwood-Area Families
If your Kentwood-area child is working through the IEP process alongside ABA therapy, our BCBA, Kimberly Blazer, can coordinate with your school team, with your consent, to help align goals. Our School Readiness Support service is designed around exactly this kind of goal. our in-home ABA therapy in Kentwood page has more information, or Get Started Today to get started.
This article is part of our complete guide, Preparing Your Autistic Child for Kindergarten. Clinically reviewed by Kimberly Blazer, BCBA.