In the context of IEP services, informed consent requires which of the following?

• A. The school can implement services after informing but not requiring parental agreement.
• B. Only the student needs to assent to services.
• C. Parents must be informed about proposed services and agree before implementation.
• D. Consent is not needed if services are in the IEP.

Answer: (C)

Informed consent in IEP services means parents must receive clear information about what is proposed and must give written permission before those services begin. This protects parents’ rights to decide what supports their child receives and ensures they understand the goals, duration, and nature of the services. A student’s assent can be sought, especially as they grow older, but it does not replace parental consent for initial services. Even if a service is listed in the IEP, consent is still required before implementation. If consent isn’t given, the district cannot start the services, though they may pursue formal dispute resolution to move forward.