An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is useful when your child (aged birth to twenty-one) has a difficulty or learning difference that impacts his or her ability to learn in a typical regular education setting. The legal term for a difference that would qualify an individual for support is a “disability.” The disability must be one that is noted in theIndividuals with Disabilities in Education Act (IDEA) and is defined by federal regulations. There are many types of disabilities and it is useful to speak with your school and/or a psychologist or medical doctor when considering the possibility that your child may benefit from an IEP. An IEP can provide a wide range of accommodations and modifications to help your student access the appropriate curriculum. Types and amounts of services depend on a student’s disability and must include placement in what is deemed the “least restrictive environment”. This means a student should be included in general education to the extent that this is feasible and the student’s needs are being met.
An IEP also includes a list of a child’s present levels of performance, specifies measurable goals, outlines how progress toward meeting the goals will be measured, names special education services to be provided, outlines related services, details a list of times, days, frequency, duration and location for these services, and specifies accommodations to be provided in class and during standardized tests. In an IEP common services include specialized small group instruction for weak areas, shortened or modified assignments, emotional support services provided by a school psychologist, social worker, or counselor, speech and language services, occupational therapy, physical therapy, adapted physical education, organization support or “coaching,” individual support from a para-educator, co-teaching, or implementation of a behavior plan. However, this is not an exhaustive list and other modifications may be recommended based on the individual
child’s needs. Common accommodations include extended time for standardized tests or classroom assignments, a quiet setting for testing, frequent breaks for movement or to meet emotional needs, redirection, repetition of directions, provided written notes, allowed use of a calculator, spell-check, or a keyboard. The services that will be best suited to your child will be determined by the school system along with input from parents and any outside professionals like psychologists and medical doctors that you may consult with.