An Individualized Education Plan (IEP) is a legal document that outlines the special education instruction, supports, and services a student needs to thrive in school
. It is designed for eligible students who attend public schools, including charter schools
. The purpose of an IEP is to ensure that a child with an identified disability receives specialized instruction and related services tailored to their needs
. Key components of an IEP include
:
- The involvement and progress of the child with a disability in the general curriculum
- All related services for which the child qualifies
- Appropriate educational accommodations necessary for the child to be successful
- The child's present levels of educational performance
- Measurable annual goals and objectives for the child's education
The IEP is developed by a team of individuals from various educational disciplines, the child with a disability, family members, and/or designated advocates
. The process begins with an evaluation that shows a student's strengths and challenges, and the results are used to create a program of services and supports tailored to meet the student's needs
. Having an IEP gives students, families, and schools legal protections and allows families to be involved in decisions that impact their child's education
