When parents walk into an IEP (Individualized Education Program) meeting, they expect collaboration, open discussion, and genuine consideration of their child’s unique needs. But sometimes, schools cross a line into something called predetermination, and it’s both a red flag and a violation of the law.
What Is Predetermination?
Predetermination happens when school staff make decisions about a student’s services or placement before the IEP meeting, without meaningful input from parents.
Instead of treating the IEP as a team decision-making process, the school essentially decides:
“This is the program your child will get.”
“This is the placement we’ve already chosen.”
“These are the services, and they’re not up for discussion.”
This undermines the very purpose of an IEP, which is to create a plan tailored to the student through collaboration.
Red Flags of Predetermination
Parents should be on the lookout for signs that the team has already made up its mind:
Placement or services are presented as a done deal before reviewing data.
You hear statements like:
“This is what we always do for kids like yours.”
“We don’t offer that service here.”
“That program isn’t available at this school.”
No alternatives are discussed, or your input is brushed aside.
The meeting feels rushed, with little time for questions or dialogue.
The IEP feels more like a presentation than a conversation.
Why Predetermination Is Wrong
Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), schools are required to provide a free appropriate public education (FAPE) and to do so through an individualized, team-based process.
Predetermination violates:
Parent participation rights – IDEA guarantees parents are equal members of the IEP team.
The individualized requirement – services must be based on the child’s unique needs, not convenience, policy, or budget.
Best practice in special education – effective planning requires analyzing data, listening to parents, and exploring options.
Courts have ruled against schools for predetermination when it’s clear parents weren’t given a genuine voice in decisions.
What Predetermination Is Not
It’s important to note that being prepared is not predetermination. School staff are expected to come with data, draft goals, and ideas. That’s normal and helpful.
Predetermination crosses the line only when:
Decisions are finalized before the meeting.
Parent input is ignored or dismissed.
Options aren’t open for real discussion.
What Parents Can Do If They Suspect Predetermination
If you believe the school predetermined your child’s IEP services or placement:
Document what happened.
Write down exact statements, meeting notes, or emails that show decisions were made in advance.
Ask questions during the meeting.
Example: “Has the team already made this decision before hearing my input?”
Example: “What other options were considered?”
Request Prior Written Notice (PWN).
Schools are legally required to explain in writing what they propose or refuse, and why.
Bring in support.
Consider inviting an advocate or another knowledgeable person to future meetings.
Escalate if needed.
If the issue continues, you may file a state complaint, request mediation, or request a due process hearing under IDEA.
Final Thoughts
Predetermination robs parents of their rightful seat at the table. An IEP team should function as a partnership, where all members, parents, teachers, specialists, and administrators, work together to design the best plan for a child.
If you walk into a meeting and feel like the decisions have already been made, know this: you have the right to push back. IDEA protects your role as an equal team member, and your voice matters.