Which document is central to providing tailored educational services and related services for a student with a disability under IDEA?

Which document is central to providing tailored educational services and related services for a student with a disability under IDEA?

• A. 504 Plan
• B. School Improvement Plan
• C. Individualized Education Program (IEP)
• D. Student Success Plan

Answer: (C)

Under IDEA, the document that defines tailored educational services and related services for a student with a disability is the Individualized Education Program. It is a written, legally binding plan developed by a team that includes the student’s parents and describes the student’s present levels of performance, measurable annual goals, the special education services the student will receive, and the related services needed—such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, counseling, and assistive technology. It also specifies any accommodations or modifications, how the student will participate with nondisabled peers in general education, the expected extent of services in the different environments (the least restrictive environment), and transition planning when appropriate. The IEP is reviewed at least annually and updated to reflect the student’s evolving needs. A 504 Plan, in contrast, focuses on providing accommodations to access general education but does not establish a comprehensive, individualized special education program. A School Improvement Plan operates at the school or district level rather than for an individual student, and a Student Success Plan is not a mandated IDEA document.

Under IDEA, the document that defines tailored educational services and related services for a student with a disability is the Individualized Education Program. It is a written, legally binding plan developed by a team that includes the student’s parents and describes the student’s present levels of performance, measurable annual goals, the special education services the student will receive, and the related services needed—such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, counseling, and assistive technology. It also specifies any accommodations or modifications, how the student will participate with nondisabled peers in general education, the expected extent of services in the different environments (the least restrictive environment), and transition planning when appropriate. The IEP is reviewed at least annually and updated to reflect the student’s evolving needs.

A 504 Plan, in contrast, focuses on providing accommodations to access general education but does not establish a comprehensive, individualized special education program. A School Improvement Plan operates at the school or district level rather than for an individual student, and a Student Success Plan is not a mandated IDEA document.