Individual Education Plans (IEP)

WHAT IS AN IEP?

An IEP or Individual Education Plan is a map that lays out the program of special education instruction, supports and key services kids need to make progress and succeed in school. Each program is designed to meet a child’s exact needs. The term IEP is also used to refer to the written plan that spells out the specific types of help the child will get. Both the program and the plan are covered by special education law, or the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). IEPs are a part of public education. They’re given to eligible kids who attend public school.

WHAT IS AN IEP MEETING?

An IEP Meeting is a Team meeting where members of The Individual Education Planning Team (IEP) meet to make joint, informed decisions regarding a student's special education programming, known as the Individualized Education Plan (IEP). AOS 98 is committed to taking the necessary steps to ensure that parents are present at and provided the opportunity to participate in the IEP meeting, at a mutually-agreed-upon time. Parents are considered equal members of the IEP team in the development of their child's special education program.

WHAT IS THE ROLE OF THE IEP TEAM?

The role of the IEP Team includes, but is not limited to, determining eligibility; developing, reviewing, and amending the IEP; and determining placement. The IEP Team is responsible for ensuring that all students are educated in the Least Restrictive Environment as determined appropriate or his/her individual needs. AOS 98 provides multiple opportunities for students ranging from the least restrictive to the most restrictive environment Some examples include: (1) placement in a general education class with special education consultation; (2) placement in both general education class(es) and the special education class(es), which provides specially designed instruction to address specific academic and/or functional needs; (3) placement in a general education class with the support of an educational technician; (4) placement in a self-contained special education classroom for 60% or more of his/her day; (5) outside special education placements as ordered by the IEP. In addition related services such as Social Work Services, Speech, Occupational and Physical Therapies may also be provided when deemed necessary to assist a student in accessing their special education programming.