Imagine you are a teacher for a student who has been referred for a special education evaluation. The parent has agreed to the evaluation but is unfamiliar with IDEA and the IEP process and wants to meet to learn more about these topics.
Create a simple visual that summarizes the 12 key components of IDEA. This visual could be a 1-2 page handout, brochure, etc. and should provide the reader with a clear understanding of key terms and processes associated with IEPs. Include IDEA citations relevant to each component.
The visual should address the following .
Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE)
Least Restrictive Environment (LRE)
Referral Process
Evaluation Process
Eligibility Determination
IEP Components
Parent and Student Involvement
Quarterly Progress Monitoring
Annual Review Process
Procedural Safeguards
Prior Written Notice
Related Services
What is IDEA?
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a federal law that guarantees all children with disabilities a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment (LRE). ([20 U.S.C. § 1400(d)])
This handout will explain the key steps involved in the special education process, your rights and involvement as a parent, and essential terms you might encounter.
The 12 Key Components of IDEA:
1. Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE):
Your child has the right to a quality education provided at public expense, regardless of their disability. ([20 U.S.C. § 1400(d)])
2. Least Restrictive Environment (LRE):
Your child’s education should take place in a general education classroom with their peers without disabilities to the greatest extent possible. ([20 U.S.C. § 1412(a)(5)])
3. Referral Process:
If you or your child’s teacher suspects they may have a disability, a referral for evaluation can be made. You’ll be involved in this process. ([34 CFR § 300.301])
4. Evaluation Process:
Your child will undergo a comprehensive evaluation by qualified professionals to determine if they have a disability and if they qualify for special education services. Your consent will be sought before any evaluation. ([34 CFR § 300.303])
5. Eligibility Determination:
Based on the evaluation results, a team will decide if your child qualifies for special education services under one of the 13 disability categories outlined in IDEA. ([20 U.S.C. § 1400(a)])
6. Individualized Education Program (IEP):
If your child qualifies for special education, an IEP will be developed. This document outlines your child’s specific needs, goals, and services they will receive. You are a key member of the IEP team. ([20 U.S.C. § 1400(d)])
7. Parent and Student Involvement:
You have the right to be involved in all aspects of your child’s special education, including evaluations, IEP meetings, and progress monitoring. ([20 U.S.C. § 1400(d)])
8. Quarterly Progress Monitoring:
Your child’s progress towards their IEP goals will be tracked regularly (usually quarterly) to ensure the effectiveness of the program. ([34 CFR § 300.347])
9. Annual Review Process:
The IEP team will meet annually to review your child’s progress, update their goals as needed, and ensure the program continues to meet their needs. ([34 CFR § 300.344])
10. Procedural Safeguards:
IDEA protects your rights as a parent. You have the right to request a due process hearing if you disagree with any decisions regarding your child’s special education. ([20 U.S.C. § 1415])
11. Prior Written Notice:
You will receive written notification before any important decisions are made about your child’s special education program or placement. ([34 CFR § 300.345])
12. Related Services:
These are services beyond core academic instruction, such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, or physical therapy, that may be necessary to help your child benefit from their education. ([20 U.S.C. § 1400(a)])