Start the School Year Strong: A Guide to Reviewing IEP Goals
Though we’re technically still in the dog days of summer, the start of the school year is right around the corner.
As the new school year begins, parents of special education students have a unique opportunity to set their children up for success by thoroughly reviewing Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals.
Understanding and updating these goals is crucial to addressing your child’s evolving needs and supporting their academic year.
Understanding IEP Goals
IEP goals are designed to meet the individual needs of your child.
These goals should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). Reviewing them allows you to make sure that they align with your child's current abilities and educational requirements. It's important that these goals are both challenging and attainable, promoting growth without causing frustration.
Additionally, they should cover various areas of development, including academic, social, and behavioral aspects.
Gathering Relevant Information
Start by collecting all relevant documents, including your child’s current IEP, progress reports, and recent evaluations.
This information provides a comprehensive view of your child’s progress and areas that may need adjustment. It's also helpful to gather any notes or feedback from previous teachers or therapists, as they can offer additional insights.
Keeping a well-organized folder or digital file of these documents can streamline the review process and affirm that nothing is overlooked.
Collaborate with Educators
Engage in open communication with your child’s teachers and support staff.
Their insights (and yours) are critical in understanding how your child is performing in the classroom and what adjustments might be necessary.
Schedule a meeting early in the school year to discuss your child’s progress and any changes that may be needed.
Identify Strengths and Challenges
Review the IEP with a focus on your child’s strengths and challenges.
Recognize areas where they have made significant progress and those where they may still struggle.
This helps set realistic and meaningful goals.
Update Goals as Needed
Based on the information gathered, make a note to update the IEP goals to reflect your child’s current needs during the next IEP team meeting.
The goals should be realistic and attainable within the school year. Adjusting goals can secure the right level of challenge and support for your child.
Focus on Skill Development
IEP goals should emphasize the development of key skills that will aid your child’s overall growth. This includes academic skills, social-emotional skills, and life skills.
Balanced goals contribute to a well-rounded educational and overall school experience.
Set Clear Benchmarks
Clear benchmarks and milestones within each goal are critical in tracking progress.
Regularly scheduled assessments provide insights into how well your child is advancing toward these goals and whether further adjustments are necessary.
Incorporate Student Interests
Whenever possible, incorporate your child’s interests into the IEP goals. Engaging in activities they enjoy can enhance motivation and engagement, leading to better outcomes.
Plan for Regular Check-Ins
You aren’t limited to one IEP meeting per year.
Work with your child’s IEP team to develop a communication plan that works for everyone. Open, collaborative communication allows any issues to be addressed promptly and ensures that the IEP remains relevant throughout the school year.
Advocate for Necessary Resources
Verify that your child has access to the necessary resources and support services required to achieve their IEP goals. This may include related services such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, or additional classroom support. .
Encourage Self-Advocacy
Teach your child to understand their IEP—this depends on their age and level of understanding—and encourage them to express their own needs and goals.
Self-advocacy is an important skill that empowers children to take an active role in their education.
Starting the school year with a thorough review of your child’s IEP goals sets the stage for a successful and productive year. A little planning goes a long way.
About Education Empowerment Partners
Education Empowerment Partners was founded by Kate Lakowski, a nationally certified school psychologist who is uniquely qualified to help you with your child’s needs. Through a collaborative approach and data-based decision making, Kate will work with your child’s educational team to develop a plan that will help lead to successful outcomes for your child’s educational career and future goals.
For more information, schedule a consultation today.
