Individualized Education Program (IEP) Development

An IEP is a legally binding document developed for students with disabilities, including ASD, under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). One crucial part of our work at MASC is the review of IEPs and to assist in the development of a document that provides specialized instruction and related services which reflects the high expectations of the IEP team for the student.

Document Review

An IEP needs to be examined thoroughly to make sure each section of the document is accurate, meaningful, and meets the needs of the student.

• Assessments and Evaluations – The foundation of an effective IEP lies in comprehensive assessments and evaluations. The assessments provide information about the child’s strengths, areas of need, and learning styles. They can test cognitive ability, academic standing, social and emotional skills, communication, behavior, motor skills, sensory, etc. The data gathered from the results of these assessments allow the team to create an IEP specifically for the student.
• Individualized Goals – Goals and objectives in the IEP are tailored to address the student’s areas of need while taking advantage of their strengths. Goals for children with autism may target communication, social interaction, academic achievement, executive functioning, self-regulation, and functional living skills. By reviewing and refining these goals, the team ensures they are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time bound.
• Accommodations and Modifications – One part of an IEP that addresses how and what a child learns is the accommodations and modifications. They must support the student’s learning and participation in accessing their education. Some common accommodations are extended time, preferential seating, and small testing groups. When considering modifications, remember modifying a student’s curriculum will change their diploma track and should be considered with all the seriousness such decisions require.
• Related Services – Children with ASD often need a range of related services to allow access to their education. Speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, counseling, and assistive technology services are just some of the services the IEP can consider during the meeting.
  We are committed to ensuring that all our clients receive the specialized instruction and support needed to receive the free appropriate public education they are entitled to. Reviewing and creating well-written documents is essential in upholding this entitlement. We strive to create personalized learning experiences that empower children with autism to reach their fullest potential.