Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Parental Participation Important Questions: Can Members of the IEP Team Excuse Themselves from Attendance?

No, a required member of the IEP team cannot be excused from a meeting without parental consent. Such a refusal must be in writing and include the reason for the excusal. However, there are two exceptions under the Excusal Rule:

• A team member whose area of expertise is not being discussed or modified during the meeting may be excused.

• If the team member's area of expertise will be discussed, they must provide a written report to both the parents and other team members prior to the meeting.

• Agree in writing with the school that a team member does not need to attend because their area of expertise will not be discussed.

• Provide written consent to excuse a team member whose area will be discussed, contingent upon them submitting a report prior to the meeting.

• Both the agreement and consent from the parents must be documented in writing.