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IEP

 Individualized Education Plan (IEP)

An IEP is a written plan for each student with a disability that is developed by educators, parents and others as appropriate.  It describes the necessary special education and related services that the student needs to benefit from a free, appropriate, public education (FAPE). 

Least Restrictive Environment (LRE)

Students with disabilities are educated to the maximum extent appropriate with students who are not disabled. Special classes, schooling, or other removal of students with disabilities from the regular education environment occurs only if the nature and severity of the disability are such that education in the regular classes cannot be achieved satisfactorily.

The IEP Team

  • Student (as appropriate)

  • Parents

  • Special Education Teacher(s) or Provider

  • A person who can interpret evaluation results

  • Others with knowledge of special expertise about the child

  • Local Educational Agency Representative

  • Transition Services Agency Representative

  • School System Representative Regular Education Teacher(s)

Preparing for an IEP Meeting 

  • Consider the student’s abilities and skills; academic development, language,

    self-help, behavior, pre-vocational.

  • Gather records that might be helpful.

  • Research and read.

  • Get advice from others who have been to IEP meetings.

  • Write down some things you want to cover.

Typical IEP Meeting Agenda 

  • Introduction and review of parent rights

  • Concerns of parent

  • Strengths of the student

  • Present levels of performance

  • Special factors

    • Behavior

    • Limited English

    • Visual impairments

  • Individual goals and objectives

  • Classroom/Program modifications/accommodations

  • Testing/Assessment

    • The Georgia Alternative Assessment (GAA) must be used for all students

      who do not participate in state and district wide assessments.

  • Assisted Technology needs

  • Placement

  • Related Services needs

  • Extended school year

Tips for a Successful IEP Meeting

  • Everyone enter at the same time, seat yourself comfortably.

  • Identify all participants and understand their relationship to the student.

  • Share ideas.

  • Keep the discussion positive.

  • Ask questions.

  • Ask for additional time to review information if needed.

  • Always try to resolve differences within the IEP Team.

After the IEP Meeting 

  • Write down your thoughts about the IEP and the process. Keep them with your

    copy of the IEP.

  • Stay in touch with school personnel.

  • Visit the student’s class.

  • Be supportive. Consider volunteering in the classroom or elsewhere at the school.

  • Remember that you may request an IEP meeting at any time during the year.

  • The student’s IEP must be reviewed at least once per year to determine whether the annual goals have been achieved and to revise the IEP if necessary.