Who develops an IEP?

• A. Only the General Education Teacher
• B. The Principal Alone
• C. The School Counselor Alone
• D. A Team Including Parents/Guardians, The General Education Teacher, The Special Education Teacher, A School Administrator, Related Service Providers, And Sometimes The Student

Answer: (D)

An IEP is created through a team approach that brings together everyone who knows the student well and can provide the needed services. The team typically includes the student’s parents or guardians, the general education teacher, the special education teacher, a school administrator or district representative, and related service providers (such as speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, or school psychologists), and sometimes the student themselves. This collaboration ensures the plan covers the student’s present levels, sets measurable annual goals, specifies services and accommodations, and determines placement in a way that reflects both home and school needs. A single person can’t supply all the required expertise and input, which is why the other options don’t fit. The student’s participation may occur, especially for goal setting and transition planning, when appropriate.