An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a document developed for each public school child in the United States
who needs special education. The IEP is created through a team effort and reviewed periodically. It is required by
the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), which ensures that children with disabilities receive an
appropriate education tailored to their individual needs.
Key Components of an IEP
-
Present Levels of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance (PLAAFP): This section describes the child’s
current abilities, including academic performance and other relevant areas such as social skills, behavior, and
communication.
- Measurable Annual Goals: These are specific, measurable goals that the child is expected to achieve within a
year. Goals are tailored to the child's unique needs and should be realistic and achievable.
- Special Education and Related Services: This details the specific special education services, accommodations,
modifications, and supports the child will receive. This might include speech therapy, occupational therapy, or
any other related services.
- Participation with Non-Disabled Children: The IEP outlines the extent to which the child will participate in
regular educational settings and activities alongside peers without disabilities.
- Assessment Participation: The document explains how the child will participate in state and district-wide
assessments, including any accommodations or modifications needed.
- Transition Plan: For students 16 years or older (or younger, if deemed appropriate), the IEP must include a plan
for transitioning from school to post-school activities, including employment, postsecondary education, or
independent living.
- Progress Monitoring: The IEP describes how the child's progress toward meeting annual goals will be measured and
reported to parents.
IEP Development Process
-
Referral: A student is referred for evaluation due to concerns about academic or developmental progress.
- Evaluation: A team of professionals conducts a comprehensive evaluation to determine whether the student
qualifies for
special education services under IDEA.
- Eligibility Determination: Based on the evaluation, a team decides if the child is eligible for special
education
services.
- IEP Meeting: If eligible, an IEP meeting is held with the parents, educators, and other relevant professionals
to
develop the plan.
- Implementation: The IEP is put into action, and teachers and other staff members provide the outlined services
and
support.
- Review and Revision: The IEP is reviewed at least annually to update goals and services as needed based on the
child’s
progress and changing needs.
The IEP is a crucial tool in ensuring that students receive a free appropriate public education (FAPE) tailored to
their
individual needs, providing them the support necessary to thrive academically and socially.
