Your child’s individualized education program (IEP) is created, reviewed, and revised by a team of experts. Each of these individuals has an important role to play in building your child’s IEP and adjusting it at IEP meetings. Below is an overview of the team members that are required to be involved in your child’s IEP based on federal law.
The Child’s Parents—You
The child’s parents have a legal right to be involved in the creation and adjustment of your child’s IEP. Parents are vital members of the IEP team because they can share valuable insights and information with the other members of the team. Parents can and should be involved in the discussion about their child’s strengths and weaknesses. You can also discuss what types of techniques are working at home that teachers and other professionals can try in the classroom setting as well.
General Education Teachers
Your child’s IEP team must include at least one of your child’s general education teachers. This teacher can share how your child is progressing compared to the general education curriculum. He or she can also share what techniques may or may not be working in the classroom so the IEP can be adjusted accordingly. This person is only required if the child is also participating in the regular education environment in addition to special education.
Special Education Teachers
The IEP team must also include at least one of your child’s special education teachers. This person can provide suggestions and insight on accommodations and modifications to the curriculum that can be made to encourage learning. The special education teacher will often also work with the child one-on-one either in the general classroom, in a resource room, or in another support setting. He or she can share valuable insights on techniques that seem to be working, progress, and other information.
School District Representative
The school district should also have a representative on your child’s IEP team. This person should have the power to approve the use of specific resources for your child. He or she must also have particular qualifications that allow them to provide or supervise specially designed instruction for your child.
Evaluation Expert
The IEP must also include someone that can interpret evaluation and testing results for your child. This person will be vital in determining how your child is progressing toward various goals as set out by the IEP. This person might already be on the team—the special education teacher is often trained to interpret testing. But, it can also include a new member of the group, such as the school psychologist.
Others with Special Knowledge or Expertise
Depending on your child’s needs, you may also have other valuable experts on the IEP team. These people are specifically invited to the team and are not legally required to be involved. These people might include speech pathologists, vocational educators, physical therapists, and more. A translator may also be provided as necessary.
If you want more information about your IEP team or if you feel that your child’s team is inadequate, contact the Matus Law Group. Our team can help ensure that your child’s IEP team is exactly what your child needs. Contact us for more information or to set up an appointment.
