Walking into an IEP meeting without knowing the lingo is like showing up to a costume party in your pajamas—awkward and unprepared. But fear not! This cheat sheet will arm you with the essential terms to navigate the conversation like a pro.
Key IEP Terms Every Parent Should Know
1. Individualized Education Program (IEP)
Your child's personalized roadmap for success, outlining specific educational goals, services, and accommodations tailored to their unique needs.
2. Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE)
The guarantee that your child receives an education at no cost, designed to meet their individual needs and prepare them for further education, employment, and independent living.
3. Least Restrictive Environment (LRE)
Ensuring your child spends as much time as possible with peers without disabilities, participating in general education settings to the maximum extent appropriate.
4. Related Services
Additional support services like speech therapy, occupational therapy, or counseling that help your child benefit from their special education program.
5. Accommodations
Changes in how your child learns the material, such as extended time on tests or preferential seating, without altering the instructional content.
6. Modifications
Adjustments that change what your child is expected to learn, like simplified assignments or alternative assessments, altering the instructional content or performance expectations.
7. Present Levels of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance (PLAAFP)
A detailed description of your child's current abilities, strengths, and challenges, serving as the baseline for setting IEP goals.
8. Annual Goals
Specific, measurable objectives your child is expected to achieve within the school year, addressing their unique needs identified in the PLAAFP.
9. Transition Services
Planning and activities that prepare your child for life after high school, including post-secondary education, vocational training, employment, and independent living skills.
10. Prior Written Notice (PWN)
A document the school must provide before making any changes to your child's identification, evaluation, or educational placement, ensuring you're informed and can participate in decision-making.
Conclusion
With this cheat sheet in hand, you're now equipped to tackle your child's IEP meeting with confidence and a dash of sass. Remember, knowledge is power—and you've got this!
Need more personalized guidance? Call or text 614-470-4466, email admin@achievepsychology.org, or visit www.achievepsychology.org to connect with experts ready to assist you.
Note: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional advice.
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