An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a document developed after a student who is found eligible for special education. It helps children with disabilities receive instruction and services that support their educational progress. The IEP is created through a team effort and is reviewed periodically. The IEP team must include a school district representative, a regular education teacher (if the child participates in regular education), a special education teacher, and a parent or guardian.

The key parts of an IEP include:

• Current performance: Your child’s current educational performance and how their disability affects their involvement and progress in general education.
• Goals: Specific and measurable annual goals for your child, such as improving their academic progress and working on their social skills.
• Special education and related services: What special education services, supplementary aids, and related services your child will receive.
• Participation with non-disabled children: How often your child will participate with non-disabled children in regular classes and activities.
• Participation in state and district-wide tests: What modifications your child needs to participate in these assessments.
• Dates and places: When your child’s services and modifications will start, for how long, and where they will be provided.
• Transition services: Beginning by age 14, your child’s IEP also includes their measurable postsecondary goals and the transition services needed to reach them.
• Measuring progress: How your child’s progress toward their annual goals will be measured and how you will be informed of their progress.

The IEP is a critical tool in ensuring that children with disabilities receive an appropriate education that meets their unique needs.