The IEP process is one of the most powerful aspects of the student’s education and therefore the IDEA mandates that parents are equal members in the creation of the IEP. Parents are therefore required to be included in the decision of evaluation and eligibility for their child’s special education services, placement, and the actual writing of the IEP. Educational research evidences that this type of family-school relationship is critical to support higher achievement for diverse student populations and create inclusive school practices.