specialedmoms.com

As with most topics addressed here in specialedmoms.com, there are two
important dimensions to the Individualized Education Program (IEP).

The first aspect is the program itself - what is involved in the process.
I will call this element "the IEP."

The second dimension is the IEP's affect on our lives - how it can
determine the course of our children's education. I will refer to
this as "the mom's perspective."

What?

The individualized education program (IEP) is the cornerstone of the Individuals
with Disabilities Act (IDEA).

The IEP is a "written statement for each child with a disability that is developed,
reviewed, and revised in accordance with [IDEA]." The IEP and the IEP process
determine and direct all dimensions of the child's special education program.

Who?

The following parties are members of the child's "IEP team":

1.) The child's parents or guardian
2.) At least one regular education teacher of the child (it the child is, or may,
participate in the regular education environment)
3.) At least one special education teacher of the child, or, at least one special
education provider of the child
4.) A representative of the public agency (e.g. principal)
5.) An individual who can interpret the instructional implications of evaluation
results
6.) At the discretion of the parent or agency, other individuals who have
knowledge or special expertise regarding the child
7.) If appropriate, the child
8.) Related services personnel

Why?

There are multiple purposes for the IEP process.

The IEP and the IEP meetings create a forum for communication between
parents and school. Ideally, the process is a collaboration in developing a
unique special education strategy for each child.

The IEP goals and objectives enable the team to evaluate the child's
educational progress.

The IEP holds the school accountable for providing the stated special
education services.

Finally, the government uses IEP data to ensure school compliance with the
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

I just cannot overstate the importance of my children's IEPs!

My husband and I are tremendously involved in the IEP process. We review
proposed goals and objectives, and never hesitate to offer our own ideas and
suggestions. We are equal collaborators in the development of our children's
educational plans.

When the finished product is issued, we are already deeply familiar with its
content. We helped create it!

In our family, the work does not end when the documents are reviewed and
signed. That is just the beginning!

We drive home from the IEP meeting and hang the IEP on our refrigerator! It
may sound strange, but we do! I look at those goals and objectives every
day! This serves two purposes.

First, it focuses me on what I must work on with my children. Every day we
work with our children to help them advance toward their IEP goals. (Click
here to learn more about incorporating IEP goals into your home environment).

Second, by continually reviewing the IEPs, we monitor our children's at-home
progress toward the objectives. We regularly share this information with the
teachers who then work towards generalizing skills into the school environment.

The teachers have always been supportive of our efforts. They give us many
ideas for at-home activities. They answer our questions about how to better
address developmental issues in our home. On many occasions, they have
even thanked us for our at-home efforts!

Parents must take an active role in developing IEPs and then implementing
them through at-home activities. This is the best way to become and remain a
knowledgeable member of the IEP team!

To become more informed about IEPs,

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