The IEP Journey: The Heart of Special Education Planning

In today's episode, we sit down with Stephanie DeLussey, a dual-certified veteran special education teacher, IEP coach, and author of the upcoming book "The Intentional IEP." Stephanie shares her unique insights into the often daunting process of writing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). She emphasizes the importance of collaboration between parents and teachers, and offers practical tips to make the IEP process more effective and less stressful for everyone involved. Read the full transcript and show notes at: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/e818 Sponsor: This show is sponsored by Microsoft. Check out their new AI Course. All opinions are my own. Once a year, I have a newsworthy topic that I accept that has advertorial content. This is the show for 2023 with Microsoft. Show Outline: Introduction Timestamp: 00:00:00 - 00:01:00 In this episode, Vicki Davis sits down with Stephanie DeLussey to discuss the importance of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and how to approach them intentionally. Stephanie shares her expertise in creating effective IEPs that genuinely cater to the needs of each student. The Importance of Parent Input Timestamp: 00:01:01 - 00:04:48 Stephanie emphasizes the crucial role that parent input plays in shaping an effective IEP. She suggests using input forms to gather valuable information from parents, which can then be used to write the present-level section of the IEP. Writing the IEP: The Present Level Section Timestamp: 00:04:48 - 00:05:22 Stephanie walks us through the process of writing the PLAAFP (Present Levels of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance) section of the IEP, which serves as the foundation for the entire plan. Gathering Additional Input Timestamp: 00:05:22 - 00:06:08 Stephanie advises sending out teacher input forms and consulting with other professionals who work with the child. This additional input helps in determining the skills to focus on when writing IEP goals. Drafting and Revising the IEP Timestamp: 00:06:08 - 00:07:16 Stephanie talks about sending a proposed draft IEP to the family for review. She emphasizes the importance of open communication and flexibility in making any necessary changes. Communication and Feedback Timestamp: 00:07:16 - 00:07:48 Vicki and Stephanie discuss the best ways to communicate with families, whether it's through email, phone calls, or face-to-face meetings, depending on the family's preference. The IEP Meeting and Follow-Up Timestamp: 00:07:48 - 00:09:11 Stephanie outlines what happens during the IEP meeting and the importance of ongoing communication with general education teachers and parents throughout the year. Addressing Misconceptions Timestamp: 00:09:11 - 00:11:09 Vicki and Stephanie tackle some common misconceptions about IEPs, including the difference between being "fair" and being "equitable." Conclusion and Resources Timestamp: 00:11:09 - 00:12:02 Vicki wraps up the episode by thanking Stephanie for her insights and mentioning Stephanie's upcoming book, "The Intentional IEP," set to release in January.