An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a legally required document in U.S. public schools that outlines a customized educational plan for a student with a disability. The IEP details the student’s present levels of academic and functional performance, measurable annual goals, the special education and related services (e.g. speech-language therapy) to be provided, accommodations or modifications needed, and methods of progress monitoring. This plan is developed and reviewed annually by an IEP team – which includes the student’s parents, teachers, school administrators, and specialists such as SLPs – to ensure the child’s unique learning needs are addressed and that they receive a Free Appropriate Public Education as mandated by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). SLPs contribute significantly to IEPs by assessing students’ communication skills, writing speech/language goals, and delivering therapy services in the school setting, thereby helping students access the curriculum and participate successfully in their education.
Center for Parent Information and Resources. “The Short-and-Sweet IEP Overview.” CPIR Fact Sheet, April 2022. Link
Baumel, Jan. “What Is an IEP?” GreatSchools, updated December 19, 2023. Link
