The IEP Journey: A Guide for Parents
Understanding the IEP process can feel overwhelming — but you don’t have to figure it out alone. We have created 8 on-demand learning sessions to help you feel confident in IEP meetings.
The IEP Journey is a free, on-demand learning series designed to help families across South Dakota understand special education step by step. Each short session breaks down important topics in clear, parent-friendly language.
The IEP Journey is designed for parents and caregivers of children receiving special education services — whether you are brand new to the process or have been attending IEP meetings for years. It is especially helpful if you are preparing for your first meeting, reviewing your child’s goals and services, feeling unsure about placement decisions, or simply wanting a clearer understanding of your rights and role. Even experienced families can benefit from this series to help them feel more organized, confident, and prepared.
In this series, you’ll learn:
- What an IEP is and how meetings work
- How evaluations and eligibility decisions are made
- Who is part of the IEP team and what each person’s role is
- How goals, services, and supports are decided
- The difference between accommodations and modifications
- What Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) means
- What questions to ask — and how to advocate with confidence
Watch one session or complete the full series at your own pace.
If you would like one-on-one support as you learn, South Dakota Parent Connection is here to help.
(605) 361-3171
www.sdparent.org
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Understanding Your Child's Progress Report
If your child has an IEP (Individualized Education Program), you will receive progress reports during the school year. These reports tell you how your child is doing on the goals written in their IEP. They are meant to help you understand your child’s growth.
Sometimes progress reports can feel confusing. You may see numbers, percentages, or short comments and wonder what they really mean. That is completely normal. Each IEP goal focuses on a skill your child is working to improve. The progress report should explain the goal, how it is being measured, and how much progress your child has made. Schools must send these reports as often as report cards are sent home.
As you read the report, think about what you are seeing at home. Is your child showing growth in that skill? Progress may be slow at times, but there should be steady improvement over the year. You might see phrases like “making progress” or “goal met,” or numbers like “4 out of 5 times.” If anything feels unclear, it is okay to ask for more details. You have the right to understand how your child is doing.
If your child is not making enough progress, the IEP team may need to adjust teaching strategies, add support, or review the goal. You do not have to wait for the annual meeting if you are concerned. You can request a meeting at any time.
Remember, you are an important member of the IEP team. Your voice matters. Progress reports are tools to guide your child’s learning and growth.
At South Dakota Parent Connection, we are here to walk alongside you. Understanding the IEP process can feel overwhelming at times, but you are not alone. Reach out to us anytime at www.sdparent.org or give us a call (605) 361-3171. We are here to help!
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Parent Support Group
Life as a parent of a child with a disability can be very busy. There are appointments, school meetings, work, family needs, and so much more. It can feel like there is never enough time in the day.
Families Together was created with busy parents in mind. This free, virtual support group lets you join from home—no travel, no extra planning. Just log in and connect.
Each month, we start with a short, helpful learning session on a disability-related topic. We keep it simple and practical. Then we open the time for conversation. You can ask questions, share ideas, or just listen while you fold laundry or relax after a long day.
You don’t have to attend every month. You don’t have to stay the whole time. Come when you can. Take what you need.
Even in a busy season, you deserve support. We hope you’ll take one hour for yourself and join other parents who understand your journey.
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Help Support Families
You can help families of children with special needs by donating at the checkout line at any of the Sioux Falls Hy-Vee locations from March 4th to March 10th! Operation Helpful Smile is raising money for South Dakota Parent Connection, an organization that supports families and professionals who work with children with special needs.
Your donation will help provide information, resources, and support to families across South Dakota. Plus, Hy-Vee will match all customer donations up to $1,000, which means your gift goes even further!
Every dollar makes a difference. When you shop March 4 - 10 at any Sioux Falls Hy-Vee, consider making a small donation at the checkout. Together, we can make a big impact for families who need our support!
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Your Voice Matters
Looking for parents and guardians willing to share their thoughts about child development in a short, anonymous, online survey.
Survey respondents must be 18 years old, read English fluently, and a parent or guardian of a 0–6-year-old child. Feel free to share this social media post with anyone you know who meets this criteria!
Your input will help us better understand how culture, community, and personal beliefs influence child development. It takes just 7-10 minutes, and your voice truly matters!
Find the survey using this LINK or by using the below QR code.
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Upcoming Events
Here are some learning opportunities offered by South Dakota Parent Connection or in partnership with other organizations that support South Dakota families. A complete list of events can be found on our website at www.sdparent.org or on our Facebook page.
February 24, 2026: Disability Awareness Day at the Capitol: This annual event is held in the South Dakota State Capitol rotunda in Pierre. The event brings together people with disabilities, family members, advocates, service providers, and policymakers to celebrate the progress made toward inclusion and accessibility, raise awareness about disability rights and issues, and engage directly with state legislators. Stop by our booth to visit about any questions you have.
March 2, 2026: Health and Wellness Fair, Laura Wilder, Sioux Falls: This come-and-go event is a great way to connect with local organizations, explore community resources, and enjoy fun activities together. With 50+ vendor booths, kid activities, health screenings, family games, and door prizes every hour, there’s something for everyone. Stop by our booth — we can’t wait to see you there!
March 3 & 4, 2026: South Dakota Special Education Conference: The annual Special Education Conference provides a unique experience to gather with South Dakota educators, related service providers, and parents. This in-person event allows participants to learn about evidence-based innovations and educational trends leading toward best practices, and provides practical solutions for special education classrooms.
March 10, 2026: Health and Wellness Fair, Whittier Middle School, Sioux Falls: This come-and-go event is a great way to connect with local organizations, explore community resources, and enjoy fun activities together. With 50+ vendor booths, kid activities, health screenings, family games, and door prizes every hour, there’s something for everyone. Stop by our booth — we can’t wait to see you there!
March 17, 2026: Families Together Virtual Support Group: South Dakota Parent Connection is offering this virtual statewide support group for parents and guardians of children, youth, and young adults with disabilities. This group is a safe and welcoming place to learn, share, and connect with other families who understand your journey. Registration is required.
April 9-10, 2026: South Dakota Early Childhood Education Conference: This statewide event for teachers, childcare providers, and early childhood professionals who work with young children. This conference offers learning sessions, expert speakers, and hands-on workshops focused on early learning, behavior support, inclusion, and family partnerships. It is a great opportunity to build new skills, connect with others, and find practical tools you can use right away in your program or classroom. South Dakota Parent Connection staff will have an informational booth available for the attendees to learn more about our services.
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Office Hours:
9:00 - 5:00 CT / 8:00 - 4:00 MT
Monday - Thursday
Friday by Appointment
Call Us: (800) 640-4553
In-Person: By Appointment
| |  | | This e-publication was developed under grants from the U.S. Department of Education Project Grant H328M2000666 and Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Grant H328M140021, Family to Family Health Information Center, $96,750; and approximately 5% financed with non-governmental resources. The contents should not be construed as the official position or policy of, nor should any endorsements be inferred by U.S. Department of Education, HRSA, HHS, or the Federal Government. | | | | |
