What to Do When a School Is Not Following an IEP in Ontario

If you believe an IEP is not being followed, start by documenting the specific support, setting and dates involved, then ask the school team to clarify implementation. A focused record is more useful than a general accusation.

Check the current document

Confirm that you have the latest IEP. Identify the exact accommodation, strategy, goal or service at issue. Note whether the wording says when, where or by whom it should be used.

Some supports apply only in particular subjects or assessment situations. If the wording is unclear, that may itself need correction.

Record concrete examples

Keep a short factual log:

• date and class or activity
• support expected
• what the student reports or what you observed
• effect on access, participation or work
• any response from staff

Avoid recording other students' private information.

Raise the concern in steps

1. Ask the classroom teacher how the support is currently implemented.
2. Share one or two specific examples.
3. Request clarification or an IEP team meeting if the issue continues.
4. Ask what action will be taken, by whom and by what date.
5. Confirm the plan in a concise email.
6. Review whether the change works.

If the concern remains unresolved, ask the principal about the school board's special education and concern-resolution process. Formal options depend on the issue, the board process and whether identification or placement decisions are involved.

Questions that keep the discussion productive

• Is the wording understood consistently by all staff?
• Does the student know how to access the support?
• Is training or technology setup incomplete?
• What evidence will show implementation?
• Does the IEP need more precise language?
• When will the team review progress?

When professional or legal support may help

An education consultant can help organize documents, identify questions and prepare for meetings. A lawyer or legal clinic may be more appropriate when the issue involves legal rights, discrimination, discipline or a formal dispute. Education consulting is not legal advice.

References

Ontario: Individual Education Plans

Ontario Special Education Guide: The IEP Process

For help reviewing the document and preparing a clear meeting plan, see Ontario parent consulting services or contact Talia.