A stand-alone assessment in the area of Developmental Adapted Physical Education (DAPE) does not mean that only one team member is responsible for completing the evaluation. Instead, it should be a collaborative process involving the case manager, DAPE teacher, and potentially physical and occupational therapy providers. These professionals function as a motor team, each bringing a unique perspective to the student's needs. The case manager ensures alignment with the student's overall special education plan, the DAPE teacher assesses motor and physical education skills, and the PT/OT providers contribute expertise in motor development, adaptive strategies, and functional movement. Working together, they provide a comprehensive evaluation that captures the full scope of the student’s abilities and needs in the area of DAPE, ensuring appropriate services and supports are identified.
Complete the Eval./Reeval. Plan Prior Written Notice (PWN) in SpEd Forms, ensuring that the parent or guardian provides signed consent for the assessment. Clearly outline the specific assessment tools and procedures that will be used. When creating the Eval./Reeval. Plan Prior Written Notice (PWN) in SpEd Forms, utilize the drop-down menu options available for a stand-alone Developmental Adaptive Physical Education (DAPE) assessment. Use the MN DAPE Criteria Checklist to assist in determining assessments and documentation needed to determine initial eligibility. The MN DAPE Best Practice Guidelines also includes information on suggested assessment and evaluation tools. You will list these assessments on the Eval./Reeval. Plan Prior Written Notice (PWN) in SpEd Forms . Refer to the Eval./Reeva. Plan Prior Written Notice (PWN) Guide for Stand-Alone DAPE for additional assistance in accurately completing the required documentation.
Once permission is received from the parent, complete all the assessments listed on the Eval./Reeval. Plan Prior Written Notice (PWN) within 30 days of the signature. You must have signed parental consent before testing begins. You have 30 school days to complete the evaluation including conducting assessments, stand-alone DAPE evaluation paperwork, and having an evaluation results meeting with the parent to discuss eligibility. The MN DAPE Best Practice Guidelines includes information and resources on MN DAPE Eligibility Criteria, suggested assessment and evaluation tools, and MN DAPE Best Practices for IEP development and services.
Complete the Stand-alone Developmental Adapted Physical Education (DAPE) Assessment in SpEd Forms to document and write up the evaluation. You can find this form in the Referral and Evaluation folder/section, located directly above the Evaluation Report.
The document below serves as an example to guide you in completing the assessment form. It is provided for reference only and should not be copied and pasted.
After completing the evaluation, summarize the gathered information in the Stand-alone Developmental Adapted Physical Education (DAPE) Assessment. You must invite the parent to a meeting with the IEP team to review the results and determine the child’s eligibility for Developmental Adapted Physical Education (DAPE) services. This meeting is commonly referred to as an evaluation results meeting. SWWC best practice is to hold an evaluation report meeting on or before the due date and include all of the required team members at this meeting.
If the team determines that the child Does Not Meet eligibility criteria areas for Developmental Adapted Physical Education (DAPE), the Stand-alone Developmental Adapted Physical Education (DAPE) Assessment would indicate that the student Did Not Qualify.
If the team determines that the child qualifies for DAPE services, they will collaborate to discuss and update the IEP during the meeting, this is called an IEP Amendment. Key discussion areas include the student’s present level of performance, identified needs, goals and objectives, service delivery minutes, and indirect/direct services necessary to support the least restrictive environment.
Use the Evaluation and IEP Meeting Agenda below to guide your planning and preparation for the Evaluation Results and IEP Amendment meeting. For additional guidance on meeting preparation, refer to the Preparation page on the RIST.
If the student qualifies, a significant change to the IEP will be required. This process, known as an IEP Amendment, involves updating key components such as the Present Levels of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance (PLAAFP), identified needs, goals and objectives, service delivery minutes, and indirect/direct services to ensure alignment with the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE).
The IEP Amendment process should be a collaborative effort between the DAPE provider and the Case Manager. DAPE services should be integrated into the existing IEP timelines and assessment intervals to ensure a seamless transition.
When completing an amendment, it is essential to maintain alignment between the PLAAFP, goals, progress monitoring procedures, and identified services. While an IEP team meeting is not required for all amendments (see Option A below), there are specific circumstances where a meeting is necessary (see Option B).
For step-by-step guidance on completing an IEP Amendment, refer to the IEP Amendment page on the RIST.