The new school year is just around the corner. Whether your child is returning after summer break or starting school for the first time, now is the time to make sure they have the support they need to succeed in the classroom. 

That means helping them feel confident and ready to learn—especially if learning hasn’t always come easily. 

Thousands of students across Maryland benefit from special education services through an Individualized Education Program (IEP). An IEP can help students build on their strengths, access the support they need, and thrive in school—and your child may qualify, too. 

If your child has struggled in ways that are difficult to explain, it may be worth exploring whether an IEP could be the right support for them. 

How an IEP Can Help Your Child  

An IEP is a collaborative plan created by parents, educators, school specialists, and other professionals who know your child. It serves as a personalized roadmap that outlines your child’s strengths, needs, and goals for growth. It also ensures access to the support and learning experiences they need to fully participate in the school community.  

IEPs are living documents, reviewed and updated each year to reflect progress and address new challenges. The goal isn’t to focus on what a child can’t do—it’s to support, celebrate, and adapt to each child’s unique way of learning. 

“For decades, IEPs have helped students succeed by focusing on what works for them,” said Sara Pease, Assistant Director of Children, Youth, & Their Families at Fello. “That often leads to improved academic performance and a real sense of belonging in the school community. The impact goes far beyond their school years, equipping students with confidence and resilience that follow them into adulthood.” 

While there are formal steps to obtaining an IEP, the process begins with parents reflecting on their child’s strengths, challenges, and individual needs.   

Recognizing What Your Child Needs  

You know your child best. Reflecting on what you’ve seen and experienced can help you notice both their abilities and areas where they may need support. A few thoughtful questions can reveal patterns and help you decide if an IEP might be the right next step. 

How has school been going for my child? If your child has attended school, consider what has come easily and what has been more difficult. Are some subjects or activities consistently challenging? While occasional difficulties are a part of learning, ongoing struggles may signal a need for extra support. 

How’s my child feeling or behaving? How your child manages emotions can offer insight into where they may need support. Strong feelings are a part of growing up, but if emotions are often overwhelming or make it difficult to participate in school, it may be worth a closer look. 

What does my child’s development look like? Every child develops at their own pace, but it can be helpful to notice patterns. If your child speaks less than their peers, struggles with routines, or takes longer to learn new skills, it may be worth exploring where additional support could help. Social growth matters, too—difficulty making friends can affect confidence and learning. 

Your child’s differences aren’t shortcomings—they reveal who they are. This perspective calls for understanding. Disability isn’t something to fix; it’s something to embrace.  

“Every child develops differently, and their personality, social behavior, and pace of learning can’t be measured against a single standard,” said Madeline Cochran, LCSW-C, Lead Behavioral Health Clinician at Fello. “Recognizing individuality is essential—not just for providing the right support, but also for showing you truly believe in their potential.” 

You don’t need to have every answer. If you think your child could benefit from additional support, that’s reason enough to explore whether an IEP could help. Taking that first step is an act of advocacy—one that can open doors to confidence, growth, and joy in your child’s education. 

Beginning the IEP Process in Maryland  

If you believe an IEP could help your child, you can get started today. There’s never a wrong time to request an evaluation, and every family has the legal right to find out if their child is eligible.  

Not every child will qualify for an IEP, and some children with disabilities may not meet the criteria. The only way to know is to begin the process.  

Gather Your Documents & Information  

Before requesting an evaluation, gather any documents that highlight your child’s strengths and challenges. That includes report cards, teacher notes, records related to school behavior, or outside assessments.  

If your child hasn’t started school yet, your observations are just as important. Pay attention to their behaviors, communication style, and routines, and take note of what you observe. No one has a more valuable perspective than you.

Request an Evaluation  

A referral notifies the school that your child may need an IEP. Teachers and staff can make referrals, but so can you—it’s your right as a parent. A referral can be as simple as a dated letter to the principal explaining why you believe your child could benefit from an IEP.  

Once the school receives your referral, they’ll review and respond. If they move forward, they’ll request your written consent to evaluate your child. In Maryland, once you provide that consent, the school has 60 calendar days to complete a thorough evaluation of your child’s strengths and needs.  

Receive a Decision  

After the evaluation, an IEP team (which includes you) will meet to review the results and determine your child’s eligibility. If your child qualifies, Maryland requires the IEP to be developed within 30 calendar days of that eligibility decision, through a separate meeting where you can share your perspective, ask questions, and help shape the support your child receives.  

Once the IEP is in place, the school begins providing the agreed-upon supports, with regular check-ins to track progress and adjust support as your child grows.  

“The IEP process stands out because it gives parents a formal seat at the table and ensures their voices are heard,” said Pease. “Advocacy means being present and engaged. Parents provide valuable insight throughout the process—your knowledge and perspective are essential. Educators recognize and rely on what you know about your child, and that understanding is key to meaningful educational planning.”  

Every Step Forward with Fello  

It’s not always clear when your child needs support or how to help them access it. But your involvement can make a real difference, giving them the opportunity to feel included and reach their full potential. 

Just as your child needs someone in their corner, Fello is here to support you along the way.  

Fello’s Children, Youth & Their Families program helps families find and navigate local resources that can make a meaningful difference in a child’s life. Through Project Learn and Project Learn Leadership Academy, we connect families with one-on-one support to help you understand your rights, build stronger relationships with schools, and navigate an IEP with confidence.  

Our goal is to give you and your child the tools to become strong self-advocates. No matter where you are in the process, we’re here to answer questions, guide you, and connect you with resources that help your child succeed. 

What you do today helps build your child’s independence and future success. If you think an IEP may be the right fit, Fello is here to support you and your family every step of the way. 

If you have questions about IEPs or would like to connect with Fello’s Children, Youth & Their Families team, please email resources@fello.org.