What is an IEP and How Does It Work?
Short answer: An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a legally binding document that details the specific support, instruction, and goals a school must provide to a child with a disability. It guarantees a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) under federal IDEA law.
What does IEP stand for?
Short answer: IEP stands for Individualized Education Program. It is often mistakenly called an "Individualized Education Plan," but "Program" is the correct legal term because it describes a comprehensive set of services, not just a plan of action.
Who qualifies for an IEP?
Short answer: To qualify, a child must have one of 13 specific disabilities (such as Autism, ADHD, or Specific Learning Disability) AND that disability must negatively affect their educational performance, requiring specialized instruction for them to make progress.
Common qualifying categories include:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Other Health Impairment (OHI) (often used for ADHD)
- Specific Learning Disability (Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, Dyscalculia)
- Emotional Disturbance (Anxiety, Depression)
- Speech or Language Impairment
What is the difference between an IEP and a 504 plan?
Short answer: A 504 Plan provides accommodations to remove barriers (like extra time or preferred seating), while an IEP provides specialized instruction (changes to the curriculum or therapies). If a child needs to learn new skills to succeed, they typically need an IEP.
| Feature | IEP (IDEA Law) | 504 Plan (Civil Rights Law) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Specialized instruction & goals | Access & accommodations |
| Legal Power | High (Procedural safeguards) | Moderate (Anti-discrimination) |
| Typical Use | Closing learning gaps | Leveling the playing field |
What is included in an IEP?
Short answer: Every IEP must include current performance levels (PLAAFP), measurable annual goals, specific special education services (minutes per week), accommodations, and how progress will be measured. It dictates exactly what the school will do for the child.
How often is an IEP reviewed?
Short answer: The IEP team must meet at least once a year (Annual Review) to update goals. However, a parent can request a meeting at any time if issues arise. A full re-evaluation of the child's eligibility occurs every three years (Triennial).
Can a school refuse to give my child an IEP?
Short answer: Yes, but they must provide "Prior Written Notice" explaining exactly why. Common invalid reasons include "their grades are too good" or "we don't have funding." Parents have the right to dispute this refusal through due process.
What should parents do next?
- Request an Evaluation in Writing: Do not just ask the teacher verbally. Send a letter to the principal requesting a "comprehensive evaluation for special education."
- Start a Binder: Keep every email, report card, and work sample. Documentation is your currency in IEP meetings.
- Learn the Timeline: Once you sign the consent form, the school has a strict deadline (usually 60 days) to complete testing.
Common IEP Questions
Does an IEP follow my child to college?
Answer: No. The IEP ends when a student graduates high school or turns 22. In college, students must apply for accommodations through the disability office, usually under Section 504.
Can I record IEP meetings?
Answer: It depends on your state laws. Many states allow it if you give 24-hour notice. Always notify the team in writing that you intend to record to ensure an accurate record of the discussion.
What happens if the school doesn't follow the IEP?
Answer: If a school fails to implement the IEP, they are denying FAPE. You should first notify the case manager in writing. If it continues, you can file a state complaint or request mediation.