School is not following the IEP — what can a parent do?

Start with the IEP itself

Identify the exact service, accommodation, supplementary aid, placement provision or other requirement you believe is not being implemented. Note dates, missed sessions, communications and the effect on the child. Distinguish an occasional scheduling issue from a repeated or significant implementation failure.

Raise the issue in writing

Contact the special education case manager or school administrator and describe the specific IEP provision and what you believe is happening instead. Ask what corrective action will be taken and whether missed services require make-up or compensatory action. If the issue is broader, request an IEP Team meeting to review progress and implementation.

Know the federal dispute routes

IDEA requires states to maintain state complaint procedures. A complaint generally must allege a violation that occurred no more than one year before the complaint is received. IDEA also provides voluntary mediation and due-process procedures. The right route depends on the facts, and states may have their own forms and procedural details.

Keep state rules in view

Federal IDEA rules create the baseline, but state education agencies administer complaint systems and may publish additional guidance, timelines and forms. Use your state education agency’s special education page and the procedural safeguards notice given to you by the district for current local instructions.