What is an IEP, and who develops it?

• A. Individualized Education Program; developed by a team including parents/guardians and professionals for eligible children with disabilities.
• B. International Education Plan; developed by district administrators.
• C. Integrated Education Program; developed by therapists alone.
• D. Individualized Education Proposal; developed by parents alone.

Answer: (A)

An IEP is an Individualized Education Program, a plan for a student who has been found eligible for special education services. A team—typically including the student’s parents or guardians and school professionals such as a general education teacher, a special education teacher, and a school administrator or district representative, plus other specialists as needed—works together to develop the plan. They review the student’s current performance, set measurable annual goals, decide the specific services and supports to provide, and determine how the student will participate in both special and general education settings. The document also lists accommodations, assistive technology if needed, how progress will be tracked, and transition steps for older students. It’s a legally binding plan that is reviewed at least once a year and reevaluated every few years to update or confirm eligibility. In essence, it’s a personalized roadmap created through collaboration among family and professionals to ensure the student receives appropriate specialized instruction and related services.