The IEP

Today's topic is the IEP, or individual education plan. Federal law requires schools to meet the needs of all students in the least restrictive environment. In other words, if at all possible, students will be educated in a regular classroom with the added support outlined in their IEP. I have had quite a bit of experience with students who have IEPs. Last year, all the students in my grade level with IEPs were in my class. This was done in order to utilize limited resources for push in support. I also attended IEP meetings and referred others for testing. This year, I do not have any students who have IEPs. I have referred two students for evaluation, however. One was emotionally disturbed. After trying some interventions, his grades went way up. Now he cannot qualify for services because his emotional issues are not affecting his academics. This is a common hurdle. Another student was referred, but after talking to his mom about my concerns, she refused to allow testing. She did not agree with my assessment that he might have a learning disability. She is convinced he is lazy. I will still try some strategies and alert the teacher he will have next year to my concerns. Hopefully his mom will come around if he does need extra help. Last year, I had wonderful relationship with our Sped. teacher. She planned with me and gave me some great new teacher advice. She was a mentor to me. I appreciate having a bit of an easier class this year, but I miss working with her.