Individualized Education Program (IEP)

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEA) states that everyone deserves a free and appropriate education. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEA) further states that if a child has a disability (there are 13 stated disabilities in IDEA and that disability adversely affects their educational performance, they are entitled to special education services in the form of an Individualized Education Program, or IEP, at no cost to the child or their family. The IEP is the written document stating the individualized educational program, which is designed to meet the child’s specific needs. An IEP is developed by school personnel in conjunction with the child’s parents. The IEP must set forth the child’s present level of performance, specific and measurable goals, and the services that will be given to the child (along with how they will be given). Along with the services, a list of accommodations, supplementary aids, and necessary modifications will be included. The IEP must be reviewed at least once a year.