Individualized Education Programs – or IEPs for short – allow for students with potential learning disabilities and other issues to get the assistance they need to make the most of their time in school.
These plans prove crucially important in many ways, so it is a major issue when teachers attempt to deviate or simply do not follow an IEP.
What are the first steps?
Understood discusses what to do if a teacher does not follow an IEP. First, not following an IEP is simply not an option, as IEPs exist as legal requirements.
However, teachers may not follow it due to misunderstandings, by complete accident or through an incorrect perspective on IEPs. This is why it is generally best to broach the topic first through civil conversation rather than immediately leaping to legal action.
Escalating your case
Talking to an administrator from the school, or a representative of the administration, is the next step to take if they continue to refuse to comply with the IEP.
It is important to keep track of departures from the IEP, as well as notes about the teacher’s reaction to the IEP and any statements they may make about it during the course of discussions.
If the school administration also refuses to take action in this situation, a parent may then discuss the matter with the IEP team. They should show documents regarding all conversations had with the teacher and the administration.
When all else fails, it is possible to take legal action. This can include filing a lawsuit with the state under education law.