Preparing an IEP draft from your own observations

Begin with evidence you already have

Collect recent observations, dated measurements, existing supports, and the learner’s strengths. Keep observations separate from interpretations. In an AI drafting tool, replace identifying details with placeholders before entering anything.

Connect the draft to the need

For each priority, identify a baseline, proposed target, measurement method, and review date. If any part is unknown, leave a visible placeholder. A fluent sentence cannot replace missing assessment data.

Review the whole document

Check that every number came from your notes and that proposed supports reflect the team’s actual decisions. Complete the required local process and use the district’s approved document system.

For the federal definition and required IEP components, consult IDEA §300.320. This drafting guide is not a complete compliance checklist.