Parents navigating Ontario’s special education system often hear about IEPs (Individualized Education Plans) and IPRCs (Identification, Placement, and Review Committees). If your child already has an IEP, you might wonder if pursuing an IPRC designation is necessary.
The short answer? Yes! While an IEP provides essential support, an IPRC offers legal protection, formal recognition, and guaranteed access to specialized placements. In this post, we’ll explore the difference between an IEP and an IPRC, what each brings to the table, and why having both is crucial for ensuring your child’s success.
What Is an IEP (Individualized Education Plan)?
An Individualized Education Plan (IEP) is a document developed by the school to support students who require accommodations, modifications, or alternative learning strategies.
Key Features of an IEP:
✔ Outlines specific supports (e.g., assistive technology, extended test time).
✔ Can include modifications (changes to curriculum expectations).
✔ Developed by school staff (teachers, principal, special education team).
✔ Updated regularly based on the student’s needs and progress.
✔ Not legally binding but must be followed by school staff.
An IEP is a powerful tool, but without an IPRC designation, there are no guarantees that support will remain in place long-term.
What Is an IPRC (Identification, Placement, and Review Committee)?
An IPRC is a formal, legal process under Ontario’s Education Act that determines whether a student qualifies as “exceptional” and what type of educational placement they require.
Key Features of an IPRC:
✔ Legally recognized identification of a child’s exceptionality (e.g., Autism, Learning Disability, ADHD, Giftedness).
✔ Determines the best placement (e.g., regular class with support, specialized program).
✔ Requires an annual review to ensure the placement is still appropriate.
✔ Parents have the right to appeal if they disagree with the decision.
✔ Ensures school boards must provide necessary support services.
Unlike an IEP, an IPRC designation is legally binding—ensuring that your child’s needs are formally recognized and protected throughout their education.
IEP vs. IPRC: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | IEP | IPRC |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Provides accommodations and modifications for learning | Officially identifies a child’s exceptionality and assigns a placement |
| Legal Status | Not legally binding | Legally recognized under the Education Act |
| Who Gets It? | Any student needing extra support | Only students formally identified as exceptional |
| Who Creates It? | School team (teachers, principal, special education staff) | A formal committee that includes school staff and parents |
| When Is It Reviewed? | Anytime, based on student progress | Annually, with a formal review process |
Why You Still Need an IPRC Even If Your Child Has an IEP
Some parents believe an IEP alone is enough, but an IPRC provides additional benefits that an IEP cannot guarantee.
1. Legal Protection of Special Education Services
✔ An IPRC decision is legally binding, meaning schools must provide the agreed-upon support.
✔ An IEP is not legally binding, meaning it can be changed, reduced, or even removed depending on school resources.
2. Guaranteed Access to Placement Options
✔ An IPRC ensures students can access specialized programs (e.g., Autism support classes, Gifted programs).
✔ Without an IPRC, placement in these programs may be at the school’s discretion.
3. Consistency Across Schools and Grades
✔ An IPRC designation follows the student across different schools and school boards.
✔ An IEP alone may be questioned or altered when a child changes schools or gets a new teacher.
4. Stronger Advocacy for Additional Support
✔ Schools are more likely to allocate funding and staffing (e.g., Educational Assistants, Speech Therapy) to students with IPRC designations.
✔ Parents can use the IPRC as legal backing when requesting additional support.
5. Smoother Transition to High School and Post-Secondary Education
✔ High schools and post-secondary institutions recognize IPRC identifications when providing accommodations.
✔ Ensures continued access to support services beyond elementary school.
How to Use Both IEP and IPRC Effectively
To maximize support for your child, follow these steps:
✅ Request an IPRC Meeting – If your child has an IEP but no IPRC, ask the school to start the IPRC process.
✅ Ensure the IEP Aligns with the IPRC – Make sure the IEP reflects the exceptionality and placement identified in the IPRC decision.
✅ Attend Annual IPRC Reviews – Review the placement to confirm it still meets your child’s needs.
✅ Keep Documentation – Maintain copies of IEPs, IPRC decisions, report cards, and assessments.
✅ Advocate for Services – Use the IPRC as legal backing to push for extra support if needed.
Final Thoughts
While an IEP is a valuable tool for day-to-day learning support, an IPRC designation ensures legal recognition, formal placement, and long-term consistency in your child’s education.
If your child has special education needs, securing an IPRC designation is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure their success.
📢 Have you gone through the IPRC process? Share your experience in the comments!
Yan Zhou on Catholic Education & Advocacy 
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