Taylor Connard

Education 650

IEP Training

On September 29, 2020 the entire staff had IEP trainings. We have a huge problem at our

school with teachers not modifying assignments for students with IEPs. It was important for

administration to ensure that teachers understand IEPs, how to modify, and the legality of having

a student with an IEP. There have been numerous instances of lawsuits against school systems

over IEPs. As an administrator, you have to protect your school, staff, and students. Trainings

help remind teachers of what is expected of them and keep the school safe from legal issues.

The first thing we went over was understanding IEPS. The IEPS are specific to each

student and highlight what they struggle with the most. For example, some students only need

extra assistance in math and do not struggle with English. You also have students who need to

only be in self-contained classes and not in the general ed room. The second discussion was

about how to modify assignments. Students with IEPs could be provided with word banks, less

questions, directions read to them, the opportunity to retest, or extended time. The final aspect

we discussed was contact with parents. If you have students who have IEPs and are struggling,

you must document that you contacted parents and let their special education case worker know.

This training was extremely beneficial for new teachers and also veteran teachers as well.

Administrators can also use refreshers on Special Education and what is being expected out of

the general education teachers. As an administrator I think it is important to focus on cotaught

and self-contained classes to ensure that students are receiving their modifications.