Memoires from the Waiting Room

      An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a tool used by educators and parents of children designated as in need of special education to map out what special requirements a child needs and to ensure that everyone understands what will happen and why. When a child requires special education, because of a learning disability, significant developmental delays, or another condition that adversely effects a child’s education.
      Once it is determined that a child qualifies for special education, an IEP meeting will be set up with the parents, the child, the teacher (one regular education and one special education), a representative of the school with understanding of the schools resources, and generally a representative for the school district, others may be brought in such as therapists or psychologists depending on the child’s needs. All of these people are collectively referred to as the IEP team. At the IEP meeting, everyone on the IEP team will discuss their view of your child’s strengths and weaknesses. It’s important to realize no one is there to judge or criticize your child! It can certainly be an emotional time for both the parents and child, but the best thing you can do for your child is keep an open mind and heart.
     The next step is for the team to make goals for the child’s education (generally these will be annual goals). The educators will discuss with the parents what areas they think need the most attention. Included in the IEP will be an outline of the services a child will receive to help him/her reach those goals (i.e. occupational therapy, vision therapy, special education, etc.).
      Usually, the goals are reviewed once a year, but can be reviewed sooner if there is a need. If you feel like your child needs a change in services (more, less, or different) you can request a meeting with the IEP team. If you disagree with any part of the IEP, you have a right to mediation or a hearing to discuss your reservations. The IEP process can be complicated, emotional, and even confusing. Don’t hesitate to ask questions if you are unsure about or don’t fully understand something! No one knows your child like you, and everyone at that meeting is there to make sure your child receives the best education possible. Having said that, if you and the rest of the team can not agree on what is best, there is low-cost and even free representation available. Keep an open mind, but always do what you think is best for your child.
Below is a sample of the IEP documents:

Tags: education, IEP, school, services, special education, therapy

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