Advocate Like A Mother

Understanding the IEP Process ELIGIBILITY, SERVICES, AND HOW TO ADVOCATE FOR YOUR CHILD

BY MARIA GIANCOTTI, M.ED. - STUDENT ADVOCACY MICHIGAN

Navigating the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) process can be overwhelming. One common misconception is that the eligibility category under which a child qualifies for an IEP determines how many services they will receive. In reality, once your child qualifies for an IEP, the support services they receive are based on their individual needs, not the eligibility category.

What is an IEP?

An IEP is a legally binding document developed by a team of professionals, including teachers, specialists, and you, the parent. It outlines the specific educational services your child will receive to meet their unique needs and ensure they have access to a free and appropriate public education (FAPE), as guaranteed under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). The IEP includes academic goals, related services (like speech or occupational therapy), accommodations, and specialized instruction. It’s designed to help children with disabilities succeed in the general education curriculum to the fullest extent possible.

Eligibility Categories

To qualify for an IEP, a child must meet one of the eligibility categories outlined by IDEA. These categories include:

• Autism

• Specific learning disability (e.g., dyslexia)

• Speech or language impairment

• Emotional disturbance

• Intellectual disability

• Other health impairment (e.g., ADHD)

• Hearing impairment

• Orthopedic impairment

• Visual impairment

• Traumatic brain injury

• Multiple disabilities

Eligibility is determined through comprehensive evaluations by a team of professionals who assess your child’s academic and developmental needs. The evaluation process is essential to identifying the services that will best meet your child’s needs, as required under IDEA.

Does Eligibility Impact Services?

A common question is, “Will my child get more or fewer services based on the eligibility category?” The answer is no. Once your child qualifies for an IEP, the focus shifts to meeting their individual needs, not their eligibility category. Whether your child qualifies under “specific learning disability” or “speech impairment,” the services provided will be based on what the IEP team determines is necessary to address your child’s unique needs. The amount or quality of services does not depend on the eligibility category; it’s determined by the child’s individual requirements.

Getting the Support Your Child Needs

The IEP is designed to ensure your child receives the support they need to succeed. Key components of the IEP include:

1. Related Services: Your child may receive services like speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, counseling, or social skills training. The IEP will specify the frequency, duration, and setting for each service. These services are designed to help your child progress academically and socially.

2. Accommodations and Modifications: The IEP may include accommodations such as extended time on tests or changes to seating arrangements. Modifications might include simplified assignments or alternative methods of assessment to ensure that your child can fully participate in the educational experience.

3. Measurable Goals: The IEP will set clear, measurable academic and behavioral goals that are tailored to your child’s needs. Progress toward these goals will be reviewed regularly, and the IEP can be updated as needed to reflect changes in your child’s development.

4. Specialized Instruction: Specialized instruction is a key element of the IEP. It refers to teaching strategies, methods, or materials adapted to your child’s unique learning needs. This could include one-on-one teaching, small group instruction, or modifications to the curriculum to help your child succeed.

Advocating for Your Child

As a parent, you are your child’s best advocate. If you feel that the services outlined in the IEP do not fully address your child’s needs, it’s crucial to speak up. Under IDEA, you have the right to request additional evaluations, services, or revisions to the IEP if necessary. IDEA also guarantees your right to participate in all IEP meetings and to be fully informed about your child’s progress. If you are unsure of how to advocate for your child, Student Advocacy Michigan is here to help. Visit our website at www.studentadvocacymi. com or call 248-372-9770 today to speak with an advocate.