Which individual must be present at an IEP meeting if a member is excused?

In the context of an Individualized Education Program (IEP) meeting, the presence of someone who can explain assessment results is essential for ensuring that all participants understand the child's educational needs, strengths, and areas of concern. This person typically provides critical information derived from evaluations and assessments that may directly influence the development of the IEP.

Having someone who can articulate the results helps facilitate a collaborative discussion among team members, including parents, teachers, and school administrators, about the child’s specific requirements. When a member of the IEP team is excused from the meeting, it is particularly important that a knowledgeable individual who can convey and interpret assessment data is present to maintain the integrity of the meeting and ensure that decisions are made based on accurate and comprehensive understanding.

While other roles such as a parent or teacher are also critical in the IEP process, the specific need for detailed assessment interpretation underscores the importance of having knowledgeable personnel during the meeting to foster informed decision-making.