If your child is struggling in school, you may be wondering what support they need to succeed. While you were researching, you may have come across the Individualized Education Plan (IEP). But how to know if this is the right option? If your child is struggling or underperforming in school, then it is important that you intervene early to keep problems from getting worse. School years go by quickly, and a child can fall behind in a matter of weeks without the right support.
If you believe that your child would benefit from an IEP, you must request an evaluation from the school. According to IDEA, the school has 60 days to complete the evaluation. Some states have shortened that to 30 or 45 days. But for most, it is 60. Once they have evaluated the child, they then have 30 days to draw up an IEP. This is why it is essential to put your request in writing as soon as you think you might want this for your child. The three month waiting period is a great reason to get this process started as soon as possible.
In order for your child to qualify for an IEP, they must have one of 13 disabilities listed in the IDEA and have been evaluated and identified as needing special accommodations in order to learn the general school curriculum. Having one of the 13 disabilities alone doesn't qualify your child for an IEP. The disability must cause significant interference with your child's ability to learn the standard curriculum.
To learn more about the IEP process and if it’s the right step for your child, schedule a free 15 minute consultation with me!
