Texas Terminology
In Texas, the "IEP meeting" is called an "ARD meeting" (Admission, Review, and Dismissal). Same thing, different name. The document is still called an IEP.
Texas IEP Timelines
Texas has some of the shortest evaluation timelines in the country:
Key Texas Deadlines
Advantage: Texas's 45 school-day evaluation timeline is shorter than the federal 60 calendar-day requirement. This can get your child services faster.
The Full Individual Evaluation (FIE)
In Texas, the comprehensive evaluation is called a Full Individual Evaluation (FIE). It must:
- ✓Assess all areas related to the suspected disability
- ✓Be conducted by qualified professionals
- ✓Use multiple assessment methods (not just one test)
- ✓Include input from you as the parent
Texas requires the FIE to be completed within 45 school days after you give written consent. School holidays and breaks don't count.
The ARD Meeting Process
Who Attends the ARD
- • You (the parent) - an equal member
- • Your child (when appropriate)
- • General education teacher
- • Special education teacher
- • LSSP (Licensed Specialist in School Psychology)
- • District representative (LEA rep)
- • Related service providers
Texas 10-Day Rule
If the ARD committee can't reach agreement, Texas allows a 10 school-day recess to continue discussions. During this time, both sides can bring additional information or request mediation. This is a Texas-specific protection.
Mutual Agreement Required
In Texas, the ARD committee must try to reach mutual agreement. If you disagree, you don't have to sign the IEP. The district must provide Prior Written Notice of what they intend to implement.
Texas-Specific Parent Rights
Either party can request up to 10 school days to continue ARD discussions before the district implements its proposal.
You can request an IEE at public expense if you disagree with the district's FIE.
Texas allows audio recording of ARD meetings with 24-hour notice to the school.
Texas has specific protections for Spanish-speaking families, including translated documents and interpreters at ARD meetings.
Texas Resources
Texas Education Agency (TEA)
State-level special education oversight and parent resources.
tea.texas.gov/special-education
Region Service Centers (ESCs)
Texas has 20 regional ESCs that provide training and support.
Find your ESC at tea.texas.gov
Disability Rights Texas
Free legal advocacy for students with disabilities.
disabilityrightstx.org
Partners Resource Network
Texas Parent Training and Information Center (PTI).
partnerstx.org