What are the steps in the Special Education Process?
Step 4: Individualized Education Program (IEP)
If
the child is eligible to receive special education services, the
Committee develops and implements an appropriate IEP, based on
evaluation results, to meet the needs of the student. Based on the IEP,
the Committee must determine the student's placement, ensuring that
services are provided in the least restrictive environment (LRE).
Placement must be as close as possible to the student's home, and unless
the student's IEP requires some other arrangement, the student must be
educated in the school he or she would have attended if not disabled.
For more information see least restrictive environment.
Step 5: Annual Review/Reevaluation
The IEP
is reviewed and, if needed, modified or revised by the Committee at
least once a year (annual review). The student has a reevaluation at
least once every three years, to review the student’s need for special
education programs and services and to revise the IEP, as appropriate. A
reevaluation may also occur when conditions warrant or when requested
by a parent or teacher.
The
process occurs sequentially with each step building on the previous
one. In this way, comprehensive information about the student is
obtained and considered. Timelines are in place so that delays are
avoided. Parents are an integral part of this process, and your
involvement is encouraged.