Wisconsin IEP Deadlines: The Overview Every Parent Should Know

Written by Casey, a Minnesota school counselor and former special education teacher, for IEP Navigator's Wisconsin families.

Wisconsin's special education timeline runs on its own real deadlines, distinct from neighboring states. Here's the actual timeline, with the law behind each step.

Initial evaluation: 60 calendar days

Once you sign consent, Wisconsin requires the evaluation to be completed AND the IEP team to determine eligibility within the same 60-calendar-day window -- these are the same deadline, not two separate ones. (Wis. Stat. § 115.78(3)(a))

IEP development: 30 calendar days after eligibility

If your child is found eligible, Wisconsin requires the IEP team to develop the IEP within 30 calendar days of the eligibility determination. (34 C.F.R. § 300.323(c)(1); Wis. Stat. § 115.78(3)(c))

Annual review: at least once every 12 months

The IEP team must review, and revise if needed, the IEP at least once every 12 months. (34 C.F.R. § 300.324(b)(1)(i); Wis. Stat. § 115.787(4)(a)1.)

Reevaluation: at least once every 3 years

A full reevaluation is required at least once every 3 years, unless you and the district agree it's unnecessary. (34 C.F.R. § 300.303(b)(2))

The one thing to double-check

Wisconsin's evaluation deadline runs on calendar days, not school days -- weekends and school breaks count toward the 60 days. That's a meaningfully longer window than a school-days-only state, but it also means the deadline keeps moving even over a long break, which is worth watching for around holidays or summer.

Track these deadlines automatically for your own child in IEP Navigator