Understanding the IEP Process Diana Wilk Langley School District October 2013
What is an IEP? An Individual Education Plan: Describes program adaptations and modifications for students in the school system identified with a special need Is a living document – will evolve, grow and change as the year progresses Is reviewed regularly (usually at reporting times) Is updated each year
Format of the IEP in Langley Profile Page Student information Strengths and needs Goal Pages Goal Area General goal statement Specific objectives Responsibility Evaluation progress Adaptations checklist where appropriate
The IEP Meeting Should happen sometime before the end of Oct. Start with sharing new home and school priorities Take time to review previous IEP – celebrate successes Plan for the meeting to last about an hour
Preparing for the IEP meeting Ideas for goal areas and objectives – what are your family priorities? What you know works best with your child/what are his/her strengths? Ideas for motivation and reinforcement (preference profile) Collaborative mindset – working together with the team Respect and dignity
Who is involved? Parents School team Student Advocate Outside agencies/supports School team: Classroom teacher Resource teacher (case manager) SEA Principal SLP OT Other staff as required
Working Collaboratively Building trusting relationships Bringing support to your IEP meeting Could be professionals working with your child outside of school (SLP, behaviour consultant, OT, mental health, etc.) Could be support for you/advocate Let the school know ahead of time who will be there and what their role is Guidelines for Effective Partnerships
What Does Achievement Look Like? Students developing independence and progressing in all goal/curriculum areas The IEP is never a “one-shot” – it continues to grow and develop according to individual progress Success is based on programming, not just support Collaboration is key in reaching goals! Quote