What is an IEP? Does my Child Need One?

            IEP is a term you are usually familiar with if only if you have had a child involved with one. Let’s take a look at what exactly an IEP is and whether or not your child will need one during his or her school career.

            IEP stands for Individualized Education Plan. It is a collaborative effort between teachers, parents, school administrators, related service personnel and the student (if old enough). All of these people come together to pool their knowledge and experience in order to create an educational program that will help a child be involved in and progress through the general school curriculum. It is designed to meet a child’s unique needs and to help them be successful in school.

            A child who has difficulty learning and who has already been identified as special needs will have an IEP in place. If you are unsure if your child needs an IEP, he can be referred for testing to determine if one is needed.

            Once in place, the IEP will be re-evaluated yearly. However, if you or your child’s teacher feels that she is meeting goals more quickly than first thought; a meeting may be scheduled to revise the IEP. As a parent, work collaboratively with the staff responsible for your child's Individualized Education Program. Ask what you can do to reinforce skills at home so that your child can have a successful school career.

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