Avoid IEP Development Pitfalls
Developing an IEP requires a thorough evaluation of all areas of a child's learning abilities, followed by an IEP meeting to determine appropriate services, accommodations, and goals tailored to their needs.
Understanding IEP Assessments 🍎
An IEP Assessment is an evaluation that determines the best educational plan for your child. It's a key part of developing an Individualized Education Plan (IEP). This process can be complex, so understanding each step is important.
The Initial Evaluation 🗓️
- Your child needs a full evaluation within 60 days of your consent (or as required by state law).
- This evaluation covers all learning areas:
- 🧠 Cognitive skills
- 💪 Physical skills
- 🗣️ Communication abilities
- 😊 Social and emotional skills
- 🖐️ Sensory processing
- It's important that all areas of potential disability are assessed. Sometimes schools miss areas, which can prevent a child from getting needed services.
After the Evaluation 🤝
- Your school will hold an IEP meeting to:
- Review the evaluation results.
- Discuss your child's strengths and needs.
- Determine if their disability affects participation in general education.
- Determine Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE), including:
- Placement
- Accommodations and modifications
- Special technology and aides
- Time and frequency of services
- The team might create a "present levels statement" listing your child's current abilities and long-term goals.
Before the IEP Meeting 📝
- Write down your priorities for your child to share with the team.
- Ask the team for draft IEP ideas before the meeting. Some schools send these, but some don't.
Need Help? 🤔
If you're getting a new IEP, or have an annual or triennial review coming up, contact us for a draft IEP review. We can help you determine if your school's proposed IEP and services are adequate, or if you need to request more support.