What is an IEP? A Parent's 101 Guide

If you’re new to the world of special education, the term “IEP” is one of the first you’ll encounter, and it’s by far the most important. But what exactly is it? Let’s break it down.

An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a legally binding document that is designed to meet the unique educational needs of a child with a disability. Think of it as a customized blueprint for your child’s education. It’s not a suggestion; it’s a contract between you and the school that outlines the specific services, supports, and accommodations your child will receive.

Who is Eligible for an IEP?

To be eligible for an IEP, a child must meet two criteria under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA):

1. They must have one of 13 specific disabilities. Dyslexia falls under the category of a “Specific Learning Disability.”
2. The disability must adversely affect their educational performance, meaning they need specialized instruction to make progress in school.

What’s Inside an IEP?

Every IEP is different because every child is different, but all IEPs must contain several key components:

• Present Levels of Performance (PLOP): This is a snapshot of your child’s current academic and functional performance. It should clearly state how their disability affects their ability to learn.
• Annual Goals: These are specific, measurable goals that your child can reasonably achieve in a school year. They should be tailored to your child’s needs and address their areas of weakness.
• Services and Supports: This is the heart of the IEP. It details the specialized instruction, related services (like speech or occupational therapy), and accommodations your child will receive.
• Placement: This section specifies where your child will be educated. By law, it must be in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE), meaning with their non-disabled peers as much as possible.

Why is the IEP So Important?

The IEP is your primary tool for advocacy. It ensures that your child is not just another student in the classroom, but an individual with specific needs that must be met. It holds the school accountable for providing the support your child is legally entitled to.

Understanding the IEP is the first step from feeling like a passive observer to becoming an active, empowered member of your child’s educational team. In our next articles, we’ll dive deeper into how to prepare for your IEP meeting and the difference between an IEP and a 504 plan.

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Related reading:

• IEP vs. 504 Plan: Which One Does Your Child Need?
• 10 Questions to Ask at Every IEP Meeting
• Understanding Your Rights Under IDEA