Welcome to IEP: The Basics
This is Part 1 of however many parts you guys want. This is for you—the parents, grandparents, caregivers, trusted adults of these kiddos that we all have supported here at Medical Support Services. As we are about two-thirds of the way through the school year, We wanted to support those who may have initial or annual IEP meetings coming up soon.
What is an IEP
To start, you may be asking, “What is an IEP?” Great question! An IEP is an Individualized Education Plan. These are legally binding documents that outline the services and supports that your child will be provided through your area school district. IEPs will follow students across school districts, across county lines, and even state lines! For example, if your child has an IEP in Kenosha Unified School District (KUSD) and you move to the Racine area, that IEP will be transferred to Racine Unified School District (RUSD). The same thing applies if you were to move from Wisconsin to Florida.
How is my child’s IEP created?
Another common question that you may have is, “How is my child’s IEP created?” IEPs are created by looking at multiple data points, both quantitative (think numbers) and qualitative (think parent thoughts): classroom performance, test scores (MAP testing), evaluation scores, teacher input, and parent input. Once all the data is collected, the IEP Team (which I will get to next) will come together and determine if criteria are met for IEP eligibility.
Who is part of the IEP Team?
The last part of this post answers the question, “Who is part of the IEP Team?” The IEP consists of the parent(s), general education teacher, special education teacher, the child (if old enough), school psychologist, and the local education agency (LEA; someone who doesn’t directly work with the child – Principal). In addition, you could also have the school social worker, guidance counselor, speech therapist, occupational therapist, physical therapist, and the list could go on… But, everyone who has been involved with the child’s eligibility testing and who could potentially be working with the child will be part of the IEP Team.