Understanding IEP & Placement Timelines in Wisconsin
For parents, educators, and therapists involved in special education, understanding the Individualized Education Program (IEP) and placement timelines is crucial. In Wisconsin, this process is structured to ensure that each student receives the appropriate support tailored to their needs. Here, we break down the key steps involved in this process.
Step 1: Contact and Arrange a Meeting
The first step in the IEP process is to contact the parent(s) and arrange a mutually agreeable time and place for the IEP team meeting. This meeting is essential for discussing the student's needs and how best to address them.
Step 2: Send Notice – Invitation to IEP Team Meeting
Once a meeting time is set, the next step is to send a notice to the parent(s) inviting them to the IEP team meeting. This ensures that all parties are informed and prepared to discuss the student's educational plan.
Step 3: IEP Team Meeting
The IEP team meets to develop the IEP and determine the appropriate placement for the student. This meeting is a collaborative effort that involves educators, therapists, and parents working together to create a comprehensive plan.
Step 4: Provide Notice of Placement and Copy of IEP
After the meeting, parents are provided with a notice of placement and a copy of the IEP. This documentation outlines the agreed-upon plan and ensures that everyone is on the same page.
Step 5: Implement the IEP and Placement
Once the IEP is finalized, it is implemented along with the determined placement. It is crucial that this process is done in a reasonable amount of time, considering any delays that might occur in mailing and processing.
Step 6: Periodic Review and Revision
IEPs are not static documents; they require periodic review and revision. At least annually, the IEP team meets to review the student's progress, consider any special factors, and make necessary adjustments to the plan.
Step 7: Revising the IEP
After the annual IEP team meeting, parents and the Local Education Agency (LEA) may agree to revise the IEP without convening a full team meeting. However, if a change in placement is being considered, an IEP team meeting is required.
Additional Considerations
- If it is the initial IEP and placement, parental consent is required before services can be provided.
- If an evaluation or reevaluation is needed, the meeting must occur within 30 calendar days of eligibility determination.
- At the beginning of each school year, each LEA must have an IEP in effect for each student for whom the district has FAPE (Free Appropriate Public Education) responsibility.
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