East Side Union High School District

When a child is being assessed for possible special education needs, an Individualized Education Program Team (IEPT) shall be convened.  Parents are an integral part of that team.

If the parent and the school agree that the student has a disability and requires special education services, an Individualized Education Program will be designed to meet the student's needs. This will take place at a meeting attended by parents and school personnel and may include others as appropriate.

An Individualized Education Program (IEP) will be developed during the planning meeting if it is determined that special education is needed. The following is a partial list of what the Education Code calls for in an IEP:

• A summary of the assessment findings, including the student's strengths as well as needs.
• A statement of goals and objectives, which the group suggests for your student.
• A list of specific services that will be used to find out how well the plan is working (evaluation).
• A recommendation for placement.
• The starting date and frequency of services

Parent consent is required before the IEP can be put into effect. If parents are uncertain at the end of the meeting as to whether they want the plan to go into effect, they may decline to sign it. They may take it home and think about it. Those components of the plan that are approved will be implemented. Parents have other rights if they disagree with the discussion of the group. County or district personnel will answer any questions about those rights.

Parents are invited to an IEP meeting with appropriate district staff and, if necessary, personnel from Santa Clara County Office of Education, the SECSE and/or other agencies. Parents may also bring other persons of their own choosing. The following are some tips on how  parents can best participate:

• Come Prepared. Jot down any questions you want answered or any suggestions you wish to make regarding educational objectives, health, transportation, schedules, and special information concerning your student's needs and strengths.
• Do Not Be Reluctant to Ask Questions.If the professionals use any terms you do not understand, please ask for an explanation.

 At least once a year there will be a meeting to review the plan to determine if it is still appropriate or if it needs to be changed. Parents may also request a review as necessary.

Parent consent is required before the IEP can be put into effect. If parents are uncertain at the end of the meeting as to whether they want the plan to go into effect, they may decline to sign it. They may take it home and think about it. Those components of the plan that are approved will be implemented. Parents have other rights if they disagree with the discussion of the group. County or district personnel will answer any questions about those rights.