This course focuses on teaching the SMARTER steps framework that SLPs can use to develop IEP goals that align with the 13 federal mandates. These steps contain a variety of time-saving tips to help SLPs understand the legal jargon to become empowered in their roles on IEP teams. Examples of SMARTER IEP goals are provided to demonstrate the strategy so that participants can have a bank of goals for reference. Research on the need for compliant IEP goals is presented related to the US Dept. of Education's most recent findings (2014) that 39 states do not meet expectations for IEP students. Implications of these findings are discussed as it relates to federal funding being tied to progress on IEP goals. Also, recent court decisions are reviewed related to the importance of school districts developing SMARTER goals. SMARTER IEP goals are imperative for future SLP services.


















