The switch to online learning has concerned many educators and families of children with learning disabilities, and has led to worries about the continuance of individualized education programs (IEP), and what these new accommodations will look like.

 

To answer these questions, on March 21st the Department of Education issued a supplemental fact sheet that stated that schools are still required to provide free appropriate public education (FAPE), though the fact sheet went on to say that these services may look different, considering the circumstances, since “during this national emergency, schools may not be able to provide all services in the same manner they are typically provided. While some schools might choose to safely, and in accordance with state law, provide certain IEP services to some students in-person, it may be unfeasible or unsafe for some institutions.” 

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The fact sheet also included that due to the emergency, there have been delays in getting FAPE materials out, but encouraged parents, educators, and administrators “to collaborate creatively to meet the needs of students with disabilities.”

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During these uncertain times it can be difficult to know how to approach monitoring and developing new IEP goals, but there are resources that can help.

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Monitoring IEP Goals Webinar 

LDA has created a webinar on how to use an IEP or 504 plan to guide remote learning. 

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Access to LDA Experts 

If you are concerned about what remote learning will look like for your child, you can ask questions to experts in the field of learning disabilities through LDA's Facebook page.

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Knowing your Rights 

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The Education Law Center has created a helpful breakdown of what rights students with disabilities are entitled to during this time. Students are entitled to a temporary adjusted learning plan, and a parent has the right to dispute the plan if they feel it is not right for their child. 

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What Flexibility Exists in IDEA Webinar  

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Special Education experts hold a Q&A on the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and how it still applies during remote learning. 

 

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Translating your Goals to Home

Edmentum has created an article on Translating IEP Goals to Home During Covid-19, which includes tips like creating a visual schedule, picking a focus goal, and create a few measurable goals. 

 

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Virtual IEP Meetings

The Educating All Learners Guidance has a guide on virtual IEP meetings, which includes an overview of IEP rights and covers topics like using technology purposefully.

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Evaluating IEP Goals with Data

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The Pennsylvania Training and Technical Assistance Network has an in-depth pamphlet from 2018 on how parents and educators can use data to analyze growth towards IEP goals. 

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