In This Issue . . .

• Methodology is Vitally Important
• Who Chooses Methodology
• New Training! on IEPs
• Proven Methods of Teaching & Learning

Circulation: 74,819
ISSN: 1538-320

School officials often refuse to write educational methodologies into the IEP. They argue that teachers should be free to use an “eclectic approach” to educating children with disabilities, and should not be forced to use any specific methodology.

Congress rejected this practice when they reauthorized IDEA 2004 - a win, win situation for all – especially for children who will benefit when they receive effective instruction from teachers who are trained in research-based instructional methods.

In this issue of the Special Ed Advocate, learn how parents, as participants in developing their child’s IEP, benefit by having input into the instructional methods used to teach their children.

New! Wrightslaw Training Program: All About IEPs. Learn more about how IEPs changed when Congress reauthorized IDEA 2004 and the legal requirements for IEPs.

Please don't hesitate to forward this issue to other friends, families, or colleagues.

Not a subscriber? Sign up free today! l Read previous issues

Methodology is Vitally Important

Why do schools resist writing methodology into IEPs? Why does the state DOE go along?

By including frequent references to the need to use scientific, research based instruction and interventions, Congress clarified that methodology is vitally important. (Section 1414(d)(1)(A))

Read Methodology in the IEP by Pam Wright and Suzanne Whitney.

Who Chooses the Methodology?

Q: The IEP team said the school chooses the methodology. Is this true?

A: The position of the US Department of Education is that including methodology in a child's IEP is an IEP team decision. If the team decides your child need a specific instructional method to receive FAPE, the methodology should be included in he IEP.

Find out more about methodology in the IEP in Chapter 6 of the new FAQ publication, Wrightslaw: All About IEPs.

New! Wrightslaw Training Program: All About IEPs

All About IEPs is a new Wrightslaw program (one day, 5 hours) that focuses on the legal requirements for IEPs and how to develop SMART IEPs.

Participants will learn how the law about IEPs changed, the legal requirements for IEPs in IDEA 2004 and federal regulations, and significant legal cases about IEPs.

In All About IEPs, you will learn how to draft SMART IEPs that are Specific, Measurable, use Action Words, are Realistic, and Time specific. You will also learn how to use an effective team approach in crafting legally sufficient IEPs. Read more...

Proven Methods of Teaching and Learning

Attorney Wayne Steedman explains that including methodology in your child’s IEP benefits both parents and teachers - and your child.

Reviewing the research and using proven methods of teaching and learning will determine the interventions and instructional methods that are most likely to provide your child with educational benefit.

Read 10 Tips: How to Use IDEA 2004 to Improve Your Child's Special Education.

back to the top

Great Products From Wrightslaw