Individualized Education Plan

If you and the school team decide that your child needs special education services, an Individual Education Plan (IEP) will be developed. The IEP explains and describes the student’s current level of functioning, the goals and objectives for the coming year, and what type of services will be provided.

Before the IEP meeting try to:

• Talk to your child about school.
• Visit your child’s classroom.
• List your child’s strengths and weaknesses.
• List goals you would like your child to achieve.
• List questions you want to ask the IEP team.
• Review any school paperwork you have at home, and any previous IEPs.
• Know your rights and responsibilities

During the IEP meeting:

• Ask and receive answers to questions.
• Clarify the educational program that is proposed.
• Discuss the Least Restrictive Environment for your child.
• Work as a team with the school staff to explore options.
• Ask for another meeting if there is not agreement or you are uncomfortable with the decisions made.
• Request a copy of the IEP document.

After the IEP meeting:

• Keep the IEP available to monitor progress.
• Learn about special education and your child’s disability.
• Express your concerns in writing if you did not agree with the IEP.