What is the purpose of the Individualized Education Program (IEP)?

The purpose of the Individualized Education Program (IEP) is to outline specific educational goals and accommodations tailored to meet the individual needs of a student with a disability. This legal document is created in collaboration with a multidisciplinary team, which typically includes the student’s parents, teachers, and special education professionals. The IEP serves as a roadmap for educators, guiding instructional strategies and providing necessary supports to help the student succeed in the educational environment.

An IEP specifies measurable annual goals, outlines the services the student will receive, and defines how progress toward those goals will be measured. By focusing on the unique aspects of the student’s strengths and challenges, the IEP ensures that educational content is personalized, enabling the student to access the general education curriculum effectively.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately represent the IEP's purpose. Generalizing teaching strategies across the classroom is more aligned with universal design for learning rather than the tailored approach needed for an IEP. Assessing school-wide performance pertains to overall school accountability measures instead of an individualized plan for a student. Reducing time spent on special education services goes against the core intention of the IEP, which is to provide appropriate support based on the student’s needs, regardless of the time commitment required.