Navigating the educational system for a child with special needs can be challenging, but having a strong understanding of the Individualized Education Program (IEP) can empower both you and your child. As both a parent and an attorney, I have experienced firsthand the difference an effective IEP can make. This guide is designed to help you grasp the components of an IEP, understand your rights as a parent, and know when and how to seek professional assistance.
Understanding the Components of an IEP
An IEP is not just a plan but a comprehensive approach to ensuring your child receives a tailored education that addresses their unique needs. Here are the key components that make up an effective IEP:
Eligibility: The first part of the IEP is the area(s) of eligibility for special education. There are 14 disability categories: (1) autism, (2) deaf-blindness, (3) deafness, (4) emotional disturbance, (5) hearing impairment, (6) intellectual disability, (7) multiple disabilities, (8) orthopedic impairment, (9) other health impairment, (10) specific learning disability, (11) speech or language impairment, (12) traumatic brain injury, (13) visual impairment, and (14) developmental delay.
Student’s Current Performance and Areas of need: This is the starting point of any IEP. It assesses your child’s current academic achievements and functional performance and how their disability affects their participation in school activities.
Annual Goals: These are specific, measurable educational and functional goals that your child can reasonably accomplish within a year for all areas of identified need. These goals are designed to help them make progress in the general curriculum.
Accommodations and Modifications: These are necessary adjustments made to the learning environment or teaching methods to help your child access their education, be on equal footing with non-disabled peers, and learn effectively. Accommodations could include extra time for assignments and tests, seated away from distractions, repeat instructions and check for understanding. Modifications could be modified coursework that is not at grade level or a reduced day.
Special Education and Related Services: This section outlines the specific services your child will receive, such as specialized academic instruction, speech therapy, occupational therapy, or psychological services, including how often, how long, and where these services will be provided.
Participation with Non-Disabled Peers: The IEP describes the extent to which your child will interact with non-disabled peers, promoting inclusion wherever possible.
Progress Monitoring: Regular monitoring and reporting of your child’s progress toward meeting the IEP goals are critical. This ensures that adjustments can be made to the IEP as needed.
Notes: This section should capture what was discussed and decided at the IEP meeting.
The IEP Process
The IEP process is collaborative and continuous, involving regular assessments every three years and revisions annually to align with your child’s evolving needs. Here’s a brief overview:
Evaluation: It all starts with a thorough evaluation or reevaluation every three years or earlier as needed to determine your child’s eligibility for special education services.
IEP Meeting: You will be part of the IEP team that includes teachers, school officials, and sometimes therapists. This team meets to discuss evaluation results, set goals, and decide on services.
Implementation: Once the IEP is agreed upon, the school must put it into action immediately.
Review: The IEP is reviewed at least annually to update the goals and make revisions based on your child’s progress. More frequent reviews can be requested if necessary.
Your Rights as a Parent
Understanding your rights is the first step in advocating effectively for your child:
Right to Participate: You have the right to participate in all aspects of the IEP development, implementation, and revision.
Right to Information: Schools must keep you informed about your child’s progress and must provide access to evaluations and records.
Right to Disagree: If you disagree with the IEP or its implementation, you have the right to request an independent evaluation, a mediation, or to file for a due process hearing.
Feel Overwhelmed by the IEP Process? We Can Help.
At Moore Law for Children, we understand that sometimes schools might not meet their obligations under the law. If you feel your child’s needs are not being adequately addressed by their current IEP, our firm can help. We are experienced in advocating for the educational rights of special needs students. With a deep personal and professional understanding of these issues, we are uniquely equipped to ensure that your child receives the education they deserve. If you need guidance or advocacy, do not hesitate to reach out to us. Together, we can advocate for your child’s educational rights so that they have the opportunity to thrive.
