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What is an IEP?
The IEP, or Individual Education Plan is a written plan by the IEP team for a child with a disability or disabilities needing special education services. It is developed to set specific and measurable goals to address the educational needs of the child. The IEP will also state the services, programs, and modifications to be implemented to address those goals. It is a legal document that designates what responsibilities the school district has to deliver a FAPE (Free Appropriate Public Education) within the LRE (Least Restrictive Environment). The IEP is updated and revised on an annual basis or as needed by the IEP team. The IEP team consists of the Special Education teacher, a Regular Education teacher, an LEA (Local Education Agency) representative (person who can commit the school's resources so that the child receives IEP services), related-services personnel i.e. Speech Pathologist, Occupational Therapist, Physical Therapist, the school psychologist, the parents, and the child (if of an age appropriate to discuss and understand the IEP or at the required transition age of 14 or older). The team can also include any outside professionals who are involved with the child's therapies, medical or physical issues, or academic support. Parents may also invite an advocate on their behalf to help with the clarification and understanding of the IEP contents. For more information on IEP's, please see the designated websites under Special Education Resources on the Web or the ADSEC Family Handbook.
How does the Special Education process work in ADSEC?
The process starts with a written referral from a parent, teacher, nurse, doctor, or other medical specialist indicating the need for an evaluation of your child for special education services. This referral can be submitted to the principal or superintendent of your respective ADSEC school, or to the Director of Special Education. The school has up to 15 business days from when they get a referral to decide if more tests are needed and will need to ask your permission to do such tests. Your school has up to 60 days once permission is given to test your child to determine if he/she qualifies for special education. If the child qualifies, then the IEP team is formed and the formulation of the IEP begins.
A child can be referred for special education at any age beginning with birth-to-three and up, but the earlier the better to identify the child's needs and begin addressing them through early intervention.
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