Understanding IEPs & Support Programs in Catholic Schools

Introduction

Every child learns differently, and for some students, additional accommodations and support are needed to help them succeed. Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) are an essential tool in Catholic schools, ensuring that students with special education needs receive the right accommodations, modifications, and resources to reach their full potential.

In this guide, we will break down what an IEP is, how it works, what support programs exist in Catholic schools, and how parents can advocate for their child’s educational needs.

1️⃣ What is an Individualized Education Plan (IEP)?

An IEP (Individualized Education Plan) is a written document that outlines a student’s learning goals, accommodations, and modifications based on their unique needs. It is developed for students who require special education services and is reviewed at least once per school year.

📌 Key Features of an IEP:

✔ Personalized learning goals tailored to the student’s strengths and challenges.

✔ Accommodations to support learning (e.g., extra time on tests, assistive technology, sensory breaks).

✔ Modifications to curriculum expectations (if needed).

✔ Teaching strategies to help the student succeed.

✔ Support services (e.g., educational assistants, speech-language pathologists).

✔ Parent and teacher collaboration to monitor progress.

📌 Not all students with an IEP require modifications to the curriculum—many only need accommodations to help them learn effectively.

2️⃣ Who Qualifies for an IEP?

An IEP may be created for a student who:

✔ Has a formal diagnosis of a learning disability, developmental delay, autism, ADHD, or other exceptionalities.

✔ Receives special education support, such as an Educational Assistant (EA) or resource teacher.

✔ Needs accommodations to access the curriculum, even if they do not require modified expectations.

✔ Has been identified as exceptional by an Identification, Placement, and Review Committee (IPRC) process.

📌 Even if a student has not been officially identified through an IPRC, a school can still create an IEP if they determine that the student requires additional support.

3️⃣ Steps for Parents to Request an IEP

📌 How to Get an IEP for Your Child:

🔹 Step 1: Recognizing the Need

• If you notice your child is struggling with reading, writing, math, focus, or social skills, discuss concerns with their teacher.

🔹 Step 2: Request an Assessment

• You can request an informal classroom assessment by the teacher.

• If further testing is needed, the school may recommend a psychoeducational assessment (conducted by a psychologist).

🔹 Step 3: Meet with the School Team

• Once an assessment confirms the need for an IEP, parents meet with the classroom teacher, special education teacher, and school principal to discuss next steps.

• Parents must provide input and consent before the IEP is finalized.

🔹 Step 4: IEP Development & Implementation

• The school creates the IEP within 30 school days of identifying a student’s needs.

• The IEP is shared with parents, and teachers begin implementing accommodations and support.

🔹 Step 5: Regular Review & Adjustments

• The IEP is reviewed throughout the year to track progress.

• Parents can request a meeting at any time if concerns arise.

📌 Parents play a key role in ensuring their child’s IEP is effective by actively participating in meetings and monitoring progress.

4️⃣ Types of Support Programs in Catholic Schools

Catholic schools offer various programs and services to support students with IEPs.

📌 In-Classroom Supports:

✔ Accommodations by Teachers – Providing modified assignments, extra time, or alternative teaching strategies.

✔ Educational Assistants (EAs) – Support for students needing one-on-one assistance.

✔ Assistive Technology – Tools like text-to-speech software, speech-to-text, and graphic organizers.

📌 Resource Programs & Special Education Services:

✔ Special Education Resource Teacher (SERT) – Works with students one-on-one or in small groups to support learning.

✔ Student Support Programs – Social skills development, behavior intervention strategies, and self-regulation programs.

✔ Gifted Education Programs – Enrichment opportunities for students identified as gifted.

✔ Speech & Language Therapy – Support for students with communication challenges.

📌 Specialized Classrooms & Programs:

✔ Autism Support Programs – Structured learning environments tailored for students with ASD.

✔ Developmental & Life Skills Classes – For students requiring an alternative learning curriculum.

✔ Transition Support for High School – Helping students move from elementary to secondary school with the right accommodations.

📌 Each school board may have slightly different programs—ask your school about the specific support services available for your child.

5️⃣ How Parents Can Advocate for Their Child

📌 5 Ways Parents Can Be Strong Advocates:

✅ Stay Informed – Read about IEPs, special education policies, and support programs.

✅ Communicate Regularly – Keep open dialogue with teachers and the special education team.

✅ Review the IEP Carefully – Ensure all accommodations and modifications are appropriate for your child’s needs.

✅ Request Changes if Needed – If the IEP is not working, ask for adjustments.

✅ Attend Meetings Prepared – Bring notes, concerns, and questions to IEP meetings.

📌 Tip: If you feel your child is not receiving adequate support, you can request a school board-level review or seek an external professional opinion.

6️⃣ Common Questions About IEPs in Catholic Schools

📌 Can a student get an IEP without a diagnosis?

Yes. A student does not need a formal medical or psychological diagnosis to receive an IEP if the school determines that special education support is necessary.

📌 How often is an IEP updated?

An IEP is updated at least once per school year, but changes can be made as needed.

📌 Can parents refuse an IEP?

Yes. Parents must provide consent for an IEP to be implemented. However, it is recommended to work collaboratively with the school if there are concerns.

📌 Does an IEP affect a student’s future education?

Not necessarily. Many students with IEPs successfully transition to post-secondary education and careers. Colleges and universities also offer accommodations for students with learning needs.

Conclusion: Every Child Deserves the Right Support

Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) help students succeed by providing the right learning accommodations, modifications, and resources in Catholic schools. As a parent, understanding the IEP process, available support programs, and advocacy strategies ensures your child receives the education they deserve.

📌 Key Takeaways:

✅ An IEP is a personalized education plan for students who need additional support.

✅ Parents play a key role in developing and reviewing their child’s IEP.

✅ Special education programs and services are available to help students thrive.

✅ Advocacy is essential – parents should communicate regularly with the school and request changes when needed.

💬 Do you have experience navigating the IEP process? Share your thoughts in the comments!