Pro Tip #1: What Makes for a Great IEP

Too often, IEPs are written by new or emergency-licensed teachers who, while eager to help, may lack the experience or training to truly understand a student's unique needs. As a result, these plans can overlook critical insights from families or fail to provide the personalized support that a student requires to thrive. Without a holistic, informed approach, IEPs risk becoming cookie-cutter, predetermined programs rather than dynamic plans designed to empower and support the students they serve.

A truly effective IEP is one that is congruent throughout – meaning that each section of the document supports and aligns with the others, all grounded in the student's present level of performance (the first few sections of the IEP). This starting point is essential because it sets the foundation for everything that follows. The present level should clearly describe the nature of the student's disability, the specific impact it has on their learning, and the supports needed for the student to participate fully in the general education curriculum. The present level should also reflect the input of the family and, when appropriate, the student. Family perspectives help ensure the plan aligns with home life, and student input encourages ownership of their learning. Once a thorough present level has been established, a great IEP will have:

1. Clear, Specific Goals

• Goals should be SMART: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.

• Goals should align with the disability as described in the present level

• Common red-flag: many teachers just copy-paste goals from software like GoalBook. Look out for goals that aren't specific to your student.

2. Accommodations and Modifications

• The IEP should include specific accommodations (e.g., extended time on tests, use of assistive technology) and modifications (e.g., altering the curriculum or assignments) to ensure the student can access the general education curriculum.

• These should be outlined and described in the present level so that it's clear how these accommodations/modifications support the student's access to the general education curriculum. For example, if a student gets extended time for completing tasks, the present level should describe the amount of time allotted and the rationale for why.

3. Progress Monitoring

• The IEP should include regular methods of assessing progress toward the goals. This ensures that adjustments can be made if the student is not progressing as expected. Most schools report progress aligned with report cards, typically on a trimester or quarterly system. The IEP will describe how often progress reporting occurs.

4. Support Services

• The IEP should outline any related services needed, such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, counseling, or other support services.

• The purpose of these services need to be described in the present level so that it is clear how their service directly supports the student's disability.

5. Least Restrictive Environment (LRE)

• The IEP should prioritize the least restrictive environment, ensuring that the student is educated with their non-disabled peers to the maximum extent possible. It should specify when the student needs to be in a more restrictive setting and why.

6. Behavioral Interventions (if applicable)

• If a student has behavioral challenges, the IEP should include a behavior intervention plan (BIP), which outlines strategies for supporting the student’s behavior, addressing the root causes, and preventing disruptions.

7. Realistic and Holistic Approach

• The IEP should take into account the student’s strengths, interests, and challenges. It should foster self-advocacy, empowering the student to understand their needs and how to ask for help.

An IEP is a living document that should be reviewed and revised regularly. Typically, IEPs are reviewed at least once a year, but more frequent updates may be necessary if the student’s needs change. When these elements are effectively incorporated, an IEP can greatly enhance a student’s educational experience and help them achieve success in school and beyond.