What Is an IEP?

An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a legally binding document that outlines a student's special education services, accommodations, and goals. It is required under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) for any student found eligible for special education.

Eligibility

A student is eligible for an IEP if they:

1. Have one or more of the 13 qualifying disability categories (e.g., specific learning disability, autism, emotional disturbance, speech/language impairment)
2. The disability adversely affects their educational performance
3. They require specially designed instruction to access the curriculum

The IEP Process

Step 1: Referral

• Any parent, teacher, or staff member can refer a student for evaluation
• The school has 15 calendar days to develop an assessment plan after receiving a referral (EC §56321)
• Parents must give written consent before assessment begins

Step 2: Assessment

• Must be completed within 60 calendar days of receiving signed consent (EC §56344)
• Must assess in all areas of suspected disability
• Must use a variety of assessment tools — no single measure may be used as sole criterion
• Assessments must be administered in the student's primary language when feasible

Step 3: IEP Meeting

• Must be held within 60 days of consent for initial assessment
• The IEP team includes: parent/guardian, regular education teacher, special education teacher, LEA representative, student (when appropriate), and any specialists
• Parents have the right to bring advocates or individuals with knowledge of the student

Step 4: IEP Development

The IEP document must include:

• Present levels of academic achievement and functional performance
• Measurable annual goals (and short-term objectives for students on alternate assessments)
• Special education services, related services, and supplementary aids
• Accommodations and modifications for instruction and testing
• Placement in the least restrictive environment (LRE)
• Transition services beginning at age 16 (or earlier if appropriate)

Step 5: Implementation & Review

• IEP must be reviewed at least annually
• A full re-evaluation must occur at least every 3 years (triennial)
• Parents may request a review at any time

Dean/Counselor Role

1. Know who has an IEP — Review IEPs for students on your caseload
2. Attend IEP meetings when invited — Provide behavioral and social-emotional input
3. Understand discipline protections — Students with IEPs have specific protections (see related article)
4. Coordinate with special education staff — Ensure accommodations are implemented
5. Support families — Help parents understand their rights and the IEP process