What is the main goal of an Individualized Education Program (IEP)?

The main goal of an Individualized Education Program (IEP) is to outline specialized educational services and support for a student with disabilities. An IEP is a legally binding document that serves as a roadmap for the educational support a child with disabilities requires in order to achieve academic success and independence. It is tailored to the unique needs of the student and includes specific educational goals, accommodations, modifications, and services that address the student's individual strengths and challenges.

The focus on providing specialized educational services ensures that the student has access to the curriculum in a way that meets their specific needs, enabling them to make meaningful progress in their education. This collaborative plan is created by a team that includes educators, specialists, the student's parents, and sometimes the student themselves, ensuring that all parties are working together to support the student's learning and development.