What is required for each student identified under IDEA?

The correct answer is an Individual Education Plan (IEP), which is a legal document required under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). The IEP outlines specific educational goals and the accommodations and services that a student with disabilities will receive to help them succeed in school. This plan is tailored to the individual needs of the student and is developed by a team that includes educators, parents, and sometimes the students themselves.

The IEP ensures that students with disabilities receive personalized support that aligns with their unique learning profiles. This may include specialized instruction, related services like speech therapy, modifications in the classroom, and accommodations for standardized testing. The IEP is also reviewed regularly to ensure it meets the evolving needs of the student as they progress through their education.

While some students may benefit from a paraeducator, a behavior plan, or may ultimately pursue a specialized diploma, these elements are not universally required under IDEA for each student identified as needing special education services. The focus of IDEA is primarily on ensuring that every eligible student has an IEP in place that specifically addresses their individual educational needs.