If you’re a new SLP and scheduling your first IEP, you might be confused on who the required IEP team members should be.
Understanding required IEP team members is crucial—not just for compliance, but for making sure students get the support they need. So let’s break it down.
Don’t forget who to invite with this editable IEP meeting checklist template, which is part of the Ultimate SLP Dashboard. Click on the picture to see an example.
Who Are the Required IEP Team Members for an Annual IEP?
According to IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act), every IEP meeting must include these IEP team members:
1. A Parent or Guardian
At least one parent or legal guardian must be present. If they can’t attend, they should be given options like a phone or video conference. Parents provide critical insight into their child’s needs.
2. A General Education Teacher
If the student participates in general education (even part-time), a general education teacher is a required IEP team member. They share how the student performs in the classroom and how accommodations will fit into the curriculum. For students that are too young to be in a general education program, check with your district to see if a general education teacher is needed.
Although only one general education teacher is required, don’t be afraid to invite more. This is especially true for middle and high school students.
3. A Special Education Teacher
A special education teacher helps develop and implement the IEP. They are key IEP team members because they provide instructional strategies tailored to the student’s needs. If it is a speech only student, the SLP is the special education teacher.
4. A District Representative (LEA Representative)
This person ensures the school can provide the services listed in the IEP. Often a principal or special education administrator, they play a vital role among IEP team members. Some districts allow the SLP to be the LEA Rep., so check with your district regarding this.
If the student’s home district is not the current district he or she attends, an LEA Rep. from the home district needs to be invited.
5. The Student (if 14-years or older)
Don’t forget, if the student is 14-years or older he or she needs to be invited to the meeting.
Who Else Might Attend an IEP Meeting?
While not required, other IEP team members may include:
✔️ Occupational or physical therapists
✔️ Behavior specialists
✔️ School counselors or social workers
✔️ Literacy or math support teachers
✔️ Advocates or attorneys (if the parent brings one)
What If an IEP Team Member Can’t Attend?
If a required IEP team member can’t be at the meeting, you must get written consent from the parent to excuse them. Without this, the meeting isn’t valid and may need to be rescheduled.
Final Thoughts
IEP meetings can feel overwhelming at first, but knowing the required IEP team members and their roles makes the process smoother. As an SLP, you play a key part—not just in evaluating speech and language skills but in advocating for your students’ communication needs.
Got more IEP-related questions? Drop them in the comments, and I’ll cover them in a future post!
If you like to use checklists to keep yourself organized, download my FREE articulation evaluation checklist today!
