What is an IEP, and who participates in its development?

• A. An IEP is a voluntary plan created by the student; participation limited to teachers.
• B. An IEP is a legally binding plan detailing the special education services a student will receive; developed by a team including parents, general education teacher, special education teacher, school psychologist, administrator, and other specialists as needed; the student may participate.
• C. An IEP is a state testing program; developed by the school counselor.
• D. An IEP is a behavior contract; developed by the principal and parents only.

Answer: (B)

An IEP is a legally binding plan for a student who receives special education services under IDEA. It specifies the individualized special education services, supports, and placement the student will receive, along with measurable annual goals and how progress will be tracked. The plan is created through a collaborative process with a team that includes parents, the general education teacher, the special education teacher, a school psychologist, an administrator, and other specialists as needed. The student may participate in the process when appropriate.

This description fits best because it highlights both the legal, comprehensive nature of the plan and the collaborative team approach, including parents and multiple professionals, with the potential for student participation. It is not simply a plan created by students, nor limited to teachers, and it is not a state testing program or a behavior contract.