Using the IEP to Assist Students with Special Needs to Learn

Established in 1975, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) addresses the needs of students with disabilities.

1. Using the IEP to
Assist Students
with Special
Needs to Learn

2. Established in 1975, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
(IDEA) addresses the needs of students with disabilities. It created
the foundation for providing students with special needs, physical
or intellectual, to receive the best possible educational experience.
The Act has two spokes -that students with special needs receive
their education in the least restrictive environment (LRE) and that
they receive it alongside their peers. Therefore, public schools must
make an individualized education program (IEP) for each student,
maximizing their educational experience.

3. LRE addresses the activities that lead to creating an educational
environment where students with special needs can participate in general
education programs with peers. It does not dictate that all students with
special needs learn the general education program. For instance, a student
with an intellectual disability might receive instruction in a self-contained
classroom with a small group. The students with special needs would
remain with the same teacher and classroom the entire day. Alternatively, a
student with mild intellectual disabilities might spend some time in the
general educational program.
Ideally, LRE goals for students will emphasize that education is fully
accessible to them. It ensures their access to resources like instructional
material and support services. The goals should prioritize student needs
instead of available space, funding, or school district pedagogy. Finally, LRE
should prioritize limiting class size, caseload, and workload to meet the
needs of the goals outlined in the student's IEP.

4. Creating an LRE for a student with special needs is a collaborative
process that almost always includes an IEP. The IEP provides
personal, educational assistance tailored to the student's needs. It
outlines the goals for the students and the resources needed to
help the child achieve them.
The process begins with an IEP referral. If the child qualifies, a team
of school officials, therapists, counselors, parents, and guardians
will receive a plan based on assessing the child's schoolwork and
engagement (attention span). The collaborative approach allows for
effective and informed decision-making based on the student's
social, emotional, and academic development within the
parameters of LRE mandates. It also allows all stakeholders a voice.
IEPs serve as roadmaps for students with disabilities. It helps
establish their LRE and ensures that they will receive individualized
assistance, according to a May 2022 article reported in the National
Education Association (NEA) Magazine.

5. The IEP supports LRE requirements, serving as a tool for educators, replacing the
one-size-fits-all instruction found in general education. In an ideal setting, a student
with special needs will receive the aid and services outlined in the IEP, helping
them learn among their non-disabled peers. Many hope the inclusive approach will
benefit all students, enrich the learning environment, and inspire educators to strive
for effective implementation.
In addition, the IEP serves as a tool for collaboration among educators and
stakeholders who interact with students. Thus, educators have an opportunity to
find ways to improve the child's educational experience. Stakeholders can help
educators by providing professional development, motivation, and preparation to
teach these students.

6. Educating this population involves looking beyond the types of
classrooms students with special needs learn in. Instead, the focus
should prioritize each student, which happens when IEPs maximize
student learning. Sharon Schultz, an education consultant, former
teacher, professor of special education, and administrator, stated
that LRE is not about a specific place or self-contained classrooms.
It is about finding ways to support students and facilitate their
learning.