IEP, Individualized Education Program?

Question

What is it exactly. Is it like some kind of program on students and what are your opinions about it?

Answer 1

An IEP is all of the things listed, bu also, and most importantly, it's a binding legal document that holds all parties signing accountable for upholding the plan. It's imperative that all signing understand this- esp. the school...

Answer 2

An IEP is a plan created with the parent, school staff, and other interested parties (doctors, the student, etc.)  The plan is supposed to address the educational wishes of the parent, needs based on assessment data, and future goals of the student.  Check out your state's special education law for info on what needs to be present.  You can also do a search on 'Wrightslaw' to get a good idea of what a good IEP looks like.  Some argue every child can benefit from an individual plan, while others argue they aren't necessary if there is good instruction.  I think as long as they are truly collaborative and nobody gets crazy with demands, they can be useful to set goals for individual students.

Answer 3

An IEP is a program designed to meet the educational needs of students with learning disabilities or emotional disorders that interfere with "their" learning process.

To qualify for an IEP a child must take an achievement test and an IQ test.  When scores are compared there must be a "gap" of about 16-17 points to qualify for a learning disability.

The IEP is then written by a team of individuals that know the strengths and weaknesses of the students including teachers, parents, counselors, school specialists (occupational therapist, speech and language, etc)

They design academic goals for the child to work on as well modifications (shortening of tests,  more time on assignments etc) and accomodations that may be required for the child to succeed "as much in the regular education program" as possible.

My son was on an IEP for a learning disability in 1-5th grade. He was very successful in the classroom, did well on the state test.  We moved out of state and the new state did not accept his IEP because on his reevaluation the learning gap had decreased.  A year without modifications and I am back to struggling with self-esteem issues, work completion issues, poor grades, and a crappy attitude about his teachers not caring about him.  

His IEP worked (and I miss it) but it was primarily the fact he had good teachers that he knew cared about him, and a mom that fought for him to stay in the program because it was working.  IEPs only are effective when they are followed by all the teachers, counselors, parents, and students.

Answer 4

Too much Bureaucracy. Most kids would be better off with a good tutor.

Answer 5

IEP stands for individualized education plan not program. It is supposed to be plan that includes modifications that will be made to help the student learn and achieve personal academic success. An example would be allowing a child to record class lectures or allowing more time to complete homework.

Answer 6

An IEP is a written statement of the educational program designed to meet a child's individual needs  (Individual Education Program)  

Every child who receives special education services must have an IEP.  

The IEP serves two main purposes.  Set measurable learning goals for the student and state what services and accomidations the school district will provide.

My opinion is that an IEP can be a very helpful tool for a student if the parents and school district personell can work together in the best interests of the child.   My daughter has been on one since age 3, and it's been excellent for her.  My son will be on one next year, and I'm really hopefull that he'll finally start getting the extra help he needs to be successfull.