What is an IEP and why does it matter?
Individualized Education Program is what the letters IEP stands for. It is a LEGAL DOCUMENT that is meant to be a roadmap for students in charter and public schools who struggle to access the curriculum and who qualify under the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) for services.
Services like: counseling, speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, as well as other academic services like reading or math intervention, and accommodations (like extra time on tests, adapted materials for curriculum access, written cues, etc.).
Having an IEP provides protection for both the school and the student. And, when it’s done well, it provides meaningful and helpful strategies for school success.
We are grateful to have Dr. James Siddall, a Licensed School Psychologist and the owner of JDS Psychoeducational Services, to lead this conversation with us. Dr. Siddall has worked as a practicing School Psychologist in Arlington for seven years, at both the high school and elementary school levels, before moving into private practice. He’s seen all sides of the IEP process.
Join us on Thursday, December 7th from 12-1pm Eastern for an IEP workshop.
For $25 you’ll learn about:
- Precise language that matters in an IEP meeting
- Specific things to ask for in your child’s IEP
- Why IEPs are actually important (and how they differ from private services)
- Time for Q&A about your child’s IEP