A team-developed written document developed with input from the child’s parents, the child (when appropriate), teachers, school administrators and special service providers. The IEP refers to the formal educational plan that is developed for each child who receives special services through a local school district. It outlines the goals for education and therapy for a student with a disability, and provides a guideline for achieving them. An IEP for a hard of hearing child should take into consideration such factors as:
- The communication needs of the child, and the family’s preferred mode of communication.
- Linguistic needs.
- Severity of the hearing loss and the potential for maximizing auditory ability.
- Academic level.
- Social and emotional needs, including opportunities for peer interactions and communication.