There is a process for students suspected of having a disability and in need of SE services. Referrals can be initiated by teachers, other professionals, parents, and caregivers.

Evaluation for eligibility consists of gathering existing information as well as formal evaluations such as academic, intellectual, behavioral, and other assessments specific to the student’s needs.

If the student is determined eligible, then an IEP is developed, placement is determined, services are identified and provided, and progress is monitored and reported to parents.

The IEP is reviewed and revised annually to reflect any changes in the student’s learning needs. Every three years, the student is re-evaluated to determine continued eligibility.

Transition plans are included in the IEP no later than the year the students turn age 16.

The IEP Team

Students IEP team includes, student, parents, teachers, counselors, and more

Each team member brings important information to the IEP meeting. Members share their information and work together to develop and write the IEP. Each person's information adds to the team's understanding of the student and identifies what services the student needs.

Students are the center of all the conversations at the IEP meeting. They are an integral part of developing the document and a source of important information regarding their own learning and growth. They must be invited to the IEP meeting if transition services are discussed.
Parents and families are key members of the IEP team. They can help to identify the strengths and needs of their student as well as ideas for enhancing their student's education.
The CTE teacher has a great deal to share about the curriculum in their classroom and the overall educational program that would help the student learn and achieve their goals.
The school counselor can provide information about the High School and Beyond Plan (HSBP) and Graduation Pathways. They can support coordination efforts between these and the development of the IEP.
The SE teacher has responsibility to coordinate and implement the IEP.

IDEA emphasizes that everyone involved in implementing the IEP must have access to the document. Everyone involved should know their responsibilities for implementing the student's IEP. This includes the specific accommodations, modifications, and supports that the student must receive, as identified in the IEP.

Next – Transition Planning