Individualized Education Program (IEP) "Individualized education program or IEP means a written statement for a child with a disability that is developed, reviewed, and revised in accordance with §§ 300.320 through 300.324." (U.S Department of Education: Michigan Administrative Rules for Special Education (MARSE) With Related IDEA Federal Regulations) The IEP will include: 1.Present Level of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance (PLAAFP) (A snapshot of the child's current abilities and skills) 2. Supplementary Aids and Services (Accommodations and modifications brainstormed by the IEP team to help thechild participate and be successful) 3. Goals and Objectives (Specific, measurable skills or behaviors that the student will master in one year's time) 4. Special Education Services and Programs (Programs and supports provided so the child can meet their goals) 5. Other (The IEP will also address special transportation, assistive technology, statewide assessments, and extended school year (ESY))
IEP vs. 504 Plan The individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) covers students who qualify for special education services. Under IDEA, a student is eligible to receive special education services if it can be determined that the student has a disability under one or more of the 13 specific disabilities listed in IDEA and the disability must affect the child's education performance and/or ability to learn and benefit from the general education curriculum. A child who receives special education services must have an Individualized Education Program (IEP), which is designed for one student and must be an individualized document. Vs. Students who do not meet the criteria for an IEP may still qualify for help under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, also known as "Section 504" or "a 504 Plan". The goal of an IEP and a 504 Plan is to ensure that students with disabilities have access to a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) that is comparable to the education given to their non-disabled peers. IEP plans under IDEA cover students who qualify for special education, whereas, Section 504 plans cover students who do not meet the qualifications for special education, but still require some accommodations.
Review of Existing Evaluation Data (REED) A REED takes place during an initial evaluation or to redetermine eligibility (revaluation takes place every three years). A REED reviews a students academic and/or social performance to determine eligibility.
Multidisciplinary Evaluation Team (MET) The first step in identifying students with suspected disabilities to special education programs and/or related services is an evaluation by a Multidisciplinary Evaluation Team (MET), which is typically composed of a special education teacher, general education teacher, school psychologist, speech therapist, social worker, teacher consultant, etc. The MET will review and analyze all data upon that student and determine if the child meets the eligibility requirements. For more information, please look at the websites below.