Crash Course: Understanding Your Child’s IEP – GOALS
The IEP Expert Explains: A 4-Part Series by Expert Chrissy Liptrot
From Jodi Liston, Founder of Liston Education Group
If you’re navigating the IEP process, you already know how important it is to have a clear, actionable plan in place for your child’s education. Last month, we covered Present Levels of Performance (PLPs)—the foundation of every IEP. But what comes next?
This month, IEP Expert Chrissy Liptrot is diving into IEP goals, the essential roadmap that ensures your child is working toward meaningful, achievable progress. Understanding how SMART goals connect to support services, accommodations, and long-term success is critical for strong advocacy in IEP meetings.
With Chrissy’s expertise, we’ll break down what makes a goal effective, how to spot red flags, and how to confidently advocate for your child’s learning needs. Let’s get started!
What Are IEP Goals?
IEP goals outline the specific skills your child will work on throughout the school year. They should be challenging yet attainable, helping your child make meaningful academic, social, and emotional progress.
IEP goals typically focus on:
Academic Skills – Reading, writing, math
Study & Organizational Skills – Time management, note-taking
Social & Emotional Skills – Self-advocacy, behavior management
Speech & Language Skills – Communication and articulation
Motor Skills – Fine and gross motor development
The Connection Between Goals & Services
Each IEP goal should align with the support and services your child receives.
A reading comprehension goal should be tied to reading intervention or specialized instruction.
A math fluency goal should correspond to special education math services or accommodations.
A social-emotional regulation goal should be supported by counseling or behavioral interventions.
If a goal exists without matching services, ask your child’s team how the school will support your child in reaching that goal.
Writing SMART IEP Goals
To be effective, IEP goals should follow the SMART framework:
Red Flags to Watch For in IEP Goals
Goals Achieved Too Quickly – If your child meets a goal in the first quarter, it was likely not challenging enough.
No Progress Being Made – If your child isn’t improving, the goal may need to be adjusted or additional services added.
Goals Repeated from Year to Year – IEP goals should evolve. If the same goals are being carried over, it’s a sign that progress isn’t being monitored effectively.
Common Parent Questions About IEP Goals
How do I know if my child’s IEP goals are appropriate?
All IEP goals should be based on your child’s Present Levels of Performance (PLPs). If a goal doesn’t directly address a documented need, it may need to be rewritten.
The school says my child is making progress, but I’m not sure. What can I do?
Schools must provide IEP Progress Reports quarterly. You have the right to request progress data and meet with the IEP team to discuss concerns.
How to Prepare for Your Child’s IEP Meeting
Before the Meeting:
If possible, review a draft of the proposed IEP goals ahead of time.
Talk to your child’s teacher about what areas they think should be prioritized.
During the Meeting:
Ask questions! How will the school track progress? What supports are in place?
Advocate for changes if goals are too vague, unrealistic, or don’t match your child’s needs.
Remember: You’ll receive a finalized IEP after the meeting, giving you another chance to review and request edits.
Coming Next Month: Accommodations & Modifications
Now that we’ve covered Present Levels of Performance (PLPs) and IEP Goals, our next installment will focus on Accommodations & Modifications—the tools that ensure your child gets the right support to succeed in their learning environment.
Stay tuned for more expert insights from Chrissy Liptrot & Liston Education Group!