What is an IEP under IDEA?

What an IEP does

An Individualized Education Program, or IEP, is a written plan developed for a child who is eligible for special education under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). It is not simply a list of accommodations. The IEP connects the child’s current academic, developmental and functional needs to measurable annual goals, special education, related services, supplementary aids and services, and other supports.

Who is on the IEP team

Federal IDEA rules require an IEP Team that includes the parent, at least one regular education teacher when the child participates or may participate in regular education, at least one special education teacher or provider, a public-agency representative who meets specified requirements, and someone who can interpret evaluation results. Other people with knowledge or special expertise about the child may also participate, and the child participates when appropriate.

What parents should look for

A useful IEP should make the connection between identified needs, measurable goals, and the specific services or supports the school will provide. Parents can ask how often a service will occur, where it will occur, who will provide it, how progress will be measured, and when progress reports will be shared.

Reviewing the IEP

The IEP Team must review the IEP periodically, but not less than annually. The team should revise it when the child is not making expected progress, when new evaluation information is available, when parent information identifies new needs, or when other changes make revision appropriate.