Understanding Your Child's IEP: A Parent's Guide

An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a legal document that outlines your child's special education services. Understanding each section helps you advocate effectively for your child.

What is an IEP?

An IEP is a written plan that describes:

• Your child's current academic and functional performance
• Annual goals for improvement
• Special education services and supports
• How progress will be measured
• Placement in the least restrictive environment

Key Sections of an IEP

1. Present Levels of Performance (PLOP)

This section describes where your child is right now:
• Academic performance: Reading, writing, math skills
• Functional performance: Social skills, behavior, daily living skills
• Strengths and needs: What your child does well and areas for growth

What to look for:

• Specific, measurable descriptions
• Both strengths and challenges included
• Recent data and examples
• Connection to how disability affects learning