An IEP is short for what's called an Individualized Education Plan. All students who have been diagnosed as having a disability must have access to obtaining an IEP. Why? Because it is your right, as a student with a disability, to get the best and most unique education possible. Your disability should not and will not limit your future if you do not let it, and having and using an IEP can be an important step in that process.
Parts of an IEP
An IEP had 14 major parts, but there are some that are more important than others. Here's a brief synopsis:
Section 1 - Basic Information- student and parent. Also, any other information such as health concerns.
Section 2 - A Statement of your future dreams- where do you see yourself in 5-10 years?
For example- where do you want to work and live?
Section 3 - This is your profile (think Facebook). It's a snapshot of who you are as a person and student. Strengths/ Weaknesses, baseline data on skills, where you want to be, behaviors, etc.
Section 4&5- These are the 2 sections that DRIVE the IEP. This is where you explain what you want as far as YOUR future- what experiences you have had, will have, and want. Here you explain the path towards your future dreams.
Section 6 - These are your annual academic goals. Each goal is specifically designed for you on a basis of what your academic needs are. In the past, this is where you have spent most of your time thinking about your IEP.
Section 7 -- This is the section set aside to help you plan for your future. If you had an IEP in Elementary or Middle School, you didn't have to worry about this section. As a high school student, now you do. This section is what this website is really all about.
Section 8 -- This is a list of any "accommodations" or "modifications" you use as a student. This might include things like having tests read to you or having extended time on assignments.
Who should be there?
The following people should be at your IEP and have an ACTIVE role in its creation:
You- the student
Your Parents/Guardian
Your Teachers/ Intervention Specialist
An Administrator (Principal, Assistant Principal, and/or Director of Special Education)
Transition Coordinator
Job Coach
OOD Representative
Board of DD Representative
Sometimes, there are others who can be invited:
School Psychologist
School Counselor
Personal Counselor
A friend or advocate
This meeting is all about YOU! What you want and how you are going to get what you want. You need to ADVOCATE for yourself.
More Information and resources:
Below are some links to sites that have even more information:
A Student's, Parent's, Teacher's Guide to an IEP (This Is a wealth of knowledge for many Individuals)