The role of general education teachers in the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process can sometimes be a source of confusion. To help clarify, let’s dive into what the IDEA Final Regulations, issued on March 12, 1999, say about this crucial aspect of special education.
The general education teacher plays a vital role in the IEP process. According to the regulations:
- To the extent appropriate, the general education teacher participates in the development, review, and revision of the IEP.
- If a student has more than one general education teacher, the Local Education Agency (LEA) may designate which teacher (or teachers) will be on the IEP team.
- Depending upon the student’s needs and the purpose of the specific IEP team meeting, the general education teacher need not be required to participate in all decisions made as part of the meeting, be present throughout the entire meeting, or attend every meeting.
- The extent to which it would be appropriate for the general education teacher member of the IEP team to participate in IEP meetings must be decided on a case-by-case basis.
Key Takeaways:
- Participation in Development, Review, and Revision: General education teachers are essential in crafting an IEP that meets the student’s educational needs. Their input helps ensure that the student can access the general curriculum effectively.
- Designated Teachers: When a student has multiple general education teachers, the LEA can choose which teacher or teachers will join the IEP team. This decision should be made based on who can provide the most relevant insights for the student’s educational planning.
- Flexible Attendance: The regulations recognize that it may not always be necessary for the general education teacher to attend the entire IEP meeting or every meeting. Their involvement can be tailored to the specific needs and objectives of each meeting.
- Case-by-Case Basis: The level of participation by the general education teacher should be evaluated individually for each student. This ensures that the IEP process remains flexible and responsive to the unique needs of every student.
At TinyEYE, we understand the complexities involved in the IEP process and the importance of each team member’s role. Our online therapy services are designed to support schools in providing the best possible educational experiences for students with disabilities.
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