How Do I Get an IEP in Illinois?
Short answer: You must submit a written request to your district. Illinois law gives schools 14 school days to decide whether to evaluate. If approved, they have 60 school days to complete testing and determine eligibility. The process is overseen by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE).
Illinois IEP Quick Facts
| Response Deadline | 14 school days (to say yes/no) |
| Evaluation Timeline | 60 school days (from consent) |
| Meeting Notice | 10 days minimum |
| State Agency | ISBE (Illinois State Board of Education) |
| Chicago Agency | ODLSS (Office of Diverse Learner Supports) |
How do I request an evaluation in Illinois?
Short answer: Send a written request (email is fine) to your principal and the Director of Special Education. State clearly: "I am requesting a Full and Individual Evaluation (FIE) for my child to determine eligibility for special education."
📅 The 14-Day Clock
Once they receive your email, the school has 14 school days to provide a written response. They must either agree to evaluate (and send consent forms) or explain in writing why they refuse.
What is the "Domain Meeting"?
Short answer: This meeting determines the scope of the evaluation. The team reviews existing data in domains like Academic, Functional, Communication, and Social/Emotional. They only evaluate the specific domains selected during this meeting.
Critical Strategy: If you suspect autism, anxiety, or ADHD, you must ensure the "Social/Emotional" and "Functional Performance" domains are checked. If the box isn't checked, the school is not legally required to test that area.
What are my rights in Chicago Public Schools (CPS)?
Short answer: CPS follows ISBE laws but uses its own administrative arm called the Office of Diverse Learner Supports and Services (ODLSS). CPS parents often face stricter bureaucracy; keep copies of every email and verify all timelines against the ISBE manual, as schools sometimes misquote local policy as state law.
Can I request an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE)?
Short answer: Yes. If you disagree with the school's evaluation findings, you can request an IEE at public expense. The school must either pay for an outside evaluator of your choice or file for a due process hearing to prove their evaluation was sufficient.
How do I file a complaint with ISBE?
Short answer: If a school misses deadlines or violates your rights, file a State Complaint with ISBE. The form must be written, signed, and submitted to the ISBE Special Education Services division. ISBE has 60 days to investigate and issue a binding decision.
Illinois-Specific Terms Parents Should Know
- ISBE (Illinois State Board of Education)
- Means: The state agency that governs all public education and special education compliance in Illinois.
- PUNS (Prioritization of Urgency of Need for Services)
- Means: A statewide waiting list database for developmental disability services outside of school. All eligible families should register.
- ODLSS
- Means: The specific department within Chicago Public Schools that handles special education.
Common Illinois Questions
Can I record an IEP meeting in Illinois?
Generally, no. Illinois is a strict "two-party consent" state. Recording without permission is a crime. However, many districts will allow it if you notify them in writing 24 hours in advance. Check your district's policy manual.
Can a student with an IEP take advanced classes?
Yes. Under the Accelerated Placement Act, Illinois schools cannot deny access to advanced classes or gifted programs based on disability. If the child meets the academic criteria, they must be admitted regardless of their IEP.
What should Illinois parents do next?
- Send your request today. The 14-day clock doesn't start until they receive your written request.
- Prepare for the Domain Meeting. Review the domains and list your child's struggles to ensure the right boxes get checked.
- Download the ISBE Parent Guide. The "Educational Rights and Responsibilities: Understanding Special Education in Illinois" is the official handbook you need.