“IEP” is an acronym for “individualized education program” (also called “individualized education plan”). When a student qualifies for special education or related services, federal law requires that an IEP be developed to document the child’s strengths, weaknesses, and educational goals. The IEP also describes how the school will provide special education or related services. Parents, teachers, and other school staff members work together to write an IEP. The student may also participate in the process.
Read more about IEPs from the National Dissemination Center for Children With Disabilities.