IEP Information for Parents

/in

An Individualized Education Plan (IEP) meeting is crucial in designing a tailored education plan for a child with disabilities, including visual impairment. Here are some key terms a parent might find helpful to know:

  1. IEP (Individualized Education Plan): A legal document outlining a child’s learning needs, goals, and the services the school will provide.
  2. FAPE (Free Appropriate Public Education): An essential legal right ensuring that every student has access to a public education tailored to their individual needs.
  3. LRE (Least Restrictive Environment): This means that a child should be educated with non-disabled peers to the greatest extent appropriate. However, there are times when the LRE is being educated with peers that share your specific disability has it’s advantages: make sure that you explore ALL the options.
  4. IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act): The U.S. law that ensures students with disabilities receive necessary special education services.
  5. 504 Plan: A plan that outlines accommodations for a child with a disability within a regular classroom setting.
  6. Accommodations: Changes in the classroom environment or in how a student is taught, such as providing tactile materials for visually impaired students.
  7. Modifications: Changes to what a child is taught or expected to learn, often altering the curriculum itself.
  8. Transition Plan: Part of the IEP that helps prepare students for life after school, including employment and living arrangements.
  9. BIP (Behavior Intervention Plan): A strategy for managing behaviors that may impede a child’s learning.
  10. Related Services: Additional services like speech therapy, occupational therapy, or counseling that help support the child’s education.
  11. Assistive Technology: Devices or tools to help a child with disabilities access the curriculum, such as Braille materials for a visually impaired student.
  12. Parental Rights: Understanding the rights of a parent in the IEP process, including consent, access to records, and dispute resolution, is vital.

Understanding these terms can empower parents in advocating for their child’s education, ensuring they receive proper support, accommodations, and services.