Mark Woodsmall, Esq. explains the foundational building blocks of a strong IEP by clarifying what Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) really requires: procedural compliance, meaningful individual progress, and true parent informed consent. Using practical examples, he shows families how to spot when services, assessments, timelines, or placements break down—and how those breakdowns can deny educational benefit. The talk also reframes Least Restrictive Environment as an inclusion mandate, emphasizes data-driven goals and comprehensive assessments, and offers concrete preparation and organization strategies so parents can participate confidently and collaboratively in IEP meetings.