A standards-based IEP should indicate how the student is performing in relationship to the Standards of Learning (SOL) at the enrolled grade-level. As noted in the VDOE guidance document (2011), standards-based IEPs identify specific skills and knowledge that will allow the student to work towards current grade-level standards.
Since many IEPs will be written between now and the end of the school year, you will want to refer to the new guidance document from the Virginia Department of Education (2011) that is focused on Standards-based IEPs. While it is a requirement to write Standards-based IEP’s for students who will be taking the VMAST, it is recommended as best practice for teachers to begin writing such IEPs for all students with disabilities, including chil- dren in preschool through high school.
A standards-based IEP should indicate how the student is performing in relationship to the Standards of Learning (SOL) at the enrolled grade-level. As noted in the VDOE guidance document (2011), standards-based IEPs identify specific skills and knowledge that will allow the student to work towards current grade-level standards or the next grade-level of standards (p.12). Teachers are also guided by VDOE (2011) to keep in mind that this does not necessarily mean that a student is on grade level in a spe- cific content area, but rather, “the student is working toward meeting grade level expectation and is receiving grade-level content instruction. The IEP should address what needs to happen in order for the student to meet the standards” (p.10). The student’s specially designed instructional program is aimed at getting the student to a proficient level on their current grade level standards. For further information, see the article in this newsletter: Designing Instruction that Moves Students Toward Grade Level Math Stan- dards – What Does It Look Like in the Classroom?
To support teachers with writing Standards Based IEPs, VDOE has created Skills Worksheets. The worksheets will assist teachers in developing goals and determining the component of the standard in which the student will need specialized instruction in order to access and address the grade level content. Click here to see Directions for Use of the Skills Worksheets and for a Grade 3 Math example.
Resources
- Teacher support materials are available on the VDOE Web site
- Questions to Consider When Developing a PLOP
- Training Presentation (PPT)
Reference
Virginia Department of Education. (2011). Standards-based individualized education program (IEP) A guide for school divisions. Retrieved from http://www.doe.virginia.gov/special_ed/iep_instruct_svcs/stds-based_iep/ stds_based_iep_guidance.pdf
