Standards-Based IEP

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Standards-Based Individualized Education Program (IEP)

A standards-based Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a process and outcome in which the IEP team has incorporated state content standards of learning in its development. The IEP is directly linked to and framed by Virginia’s course content Standards of Learning (SOL) for the grade in which the student is enrolled or will be enrolled. The components are the same as the traditional IEP. In a standards-based IEP, the Present Level of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance (PLAAFP) and some or all of the annual goals are connected to the specific grade-level SOL. This creates a program that is aimed at getting the student to a proficient level on state standards in addition to addressing functional and/or behavioral needs of the student, as needed.

Guidance Document for Implementing the Standards-Based Individualized Education Program (IEP)

This standards-based IEP guide intends to provide technical assistance for educators, parents, and others who participate in the development of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for students with disabilities. The content of this guide is based on regulatory requirement for an IEP as outlined in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA 2004) and Regulations Governing Special Education Programs in Virginia. It does not address the eligibility process, procedural safeguards or implementation of the IEP.  Also, it utilizes the sample forms developed by the VDOE. However, this does not imply that the sample forms must be used by the divisions.

Training for IEP Team Members

To help facilitate effective IEP development and implementation, the Meaningful IEP Meetings Online Modules have been created to increase IEP team members’ understanding of the IEP process, including the basics and components of the IEP, roles and responsibilities of team members, and evaluating the IEP process.  School divisions are encouraged to use this online module for professional development. It can be used as a refresher for current staff and an introduction or overview for new staff. It is appropriate for all staff members who are a part of the IEP process, such as local education agency representatives, special education teachers, general education teachers, diagnosticians, school psychologists, outside agencies, and other IEP team members.  Several resources are embedded within this online module; a certificate is issued upon completion. 

Standards-Based IEP Training

The VDOE, along with the collaboration of the Training and Technical Assistance Centers has developed a free online training. The training focuses on the development of a standards-based IEP and can be used as an individual or group training tool. (updated December 2021)

Module Description Video PowerPoint
Module 1 – Introduction Module 1 Video Module 1 PowerPoint
Module 2 – Developing the Present Level of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance (PLOP) Module 2 Video Module 2 PowerPoint
Module 3 – Developing Standards-based Measurable Annual Goals Module 3 Video Module 3 PowerPoint
Module 4 – Assessing and Reporting Student Progress Module 4 Video Module 4 PowerPoint
Module 5 – Identifying Special Education and Related Services Module 5 Video Module 5 PowerPoint
Module 6 – Determining the Most Appropriate Assessment Option Module 6 Video Module 6 PowerPoint
Module 7 – Determining the Least Restrictive Environment Module 7 Video Module 7 PowerPoint
Module 8 – Additional Components: Secondary IEP Module 8 Video Module 8 PowerPoint
Module 9 – Transition Module 9 Video Module 9 PowerPoint

Skills Worksheets

These worksheets have been developed based on the grade-level curriculum framework essential skills and knowledge to assist the teacher in developing goals and determining the component of the standard in which the student will need specialized instruction to access and address the grade level content.

Mathematics (2016)

English (2017)

Additional Resources