An overview of what IEPs are, their purpose, who is involved in the development process, and the legal requirements surrounding IEPs.
Introduction to Individualized Education Plans (IEPs)
| Category | Typical Examples |
|---|---|
| Specific Learning Disabilities | Dyslexia, dyscalculia |
| Intellectual Disabilities | Moderate to severe cognitive delays |
| Autism Spectrum Disorder | Communication and social interaction challenges |
| Emotional/Behavioral Disorders | Anxiety, oppositional behavior |
| Other Health Impairments | ADHD, chronic illnesses |
| Sensory Impairments | Visual or hearing loss |
| Multiple Disabilities | Combination of two or more categories |
Eligibility is determined through a formal evaluation process that includes:
| Component | What It Covers | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Student Profile | Strengths, interests, present levels of performance (PLOP) | “Reading fluency at grade level; struggles with comprehension.” |
| Annual Goals | Specific, measurable, attainable, results‑oriented, time‑bound (SMART) | “By June, increase reading comprehension score from 65% to 80% on grade‑level passages.” |
| Special Education Services | Type, frequency, location, and duration of instruction | 30 min of small‑group reading intervention, 4 days/week, in the resource room. |
| Related Services | Supportive services (e.g., OT, PT, speech, counseling) | Speech therapy 2 × 30 min/week for language production. |
| Accommodations & Modifications | Changes to how the curriculum is delivered or assessed | Extended time on tests, text‑to‑speech software, reduced homework load. |
| Transition Planning (age 14+) | Post‑secondary goals, vocational training, independent living | “Enroll in a community college program for graphic design.” |
| Progress Monitoring | How and when progress will be measured and reported | Quarterly data collection; report cards sent home each term. |
| Team Members | Parents, special‑ed teacher, general‑ed teacher, related‑service providers, school administrator, and—when appropriate—the student | Signature line for each participant. |
Referral
Evaluation
Eligibility Determination
IEP Meeting
Implementation
Progress Reporting
Annual Review & Revision