Spark Asher Academy: Supporting Students with Individual Education Plans (IEPs)

At Spark Asher Academy (formerly OES), we are committed to providing a supportive learning environment for all students, including those who require an Individual Education Plan (IEP).

What is an IEP?

An IEP is a written plan specifically designed to meet the needs of a student with a disability. It outlines:

• Special Education Program: The specific services and support a student requires to succeed.
• Strengths and Needs: Identified based on assessments to personalize the learning experience.
• Key Features: The program’s structure, including accommodations, modifications, and/or alternative curriculum (if applicable).

Important to Note:

• An IEP is not a daily lesson plan.
• It focuses on long-term goals and strategies to enhance learning.

Understanding Accommodations:

Accommodations are adjustments made to teaching methods, testing formats, or the learning environment to ensure equal access to learning for students with disabilities. These can be categorized as:

• Instructional: Modifications to how material is presented or learned.
• Environmental: Adjustments to the physical learning space or routine.
• Assessment: Changes to how a student’s knowledge is evaluated.

At Spark Asher Academy, accommodations will be implemented specifically for instruction and assessments.

The IEP Process: Development and Review

IEPs are developed by schools when assessments indicate a student needs specialized support.

• Collaboration is Key: Parents, students (when possible), and educators work together to create a comprehensive plan.
• Gathering Information: Assessments, observations, and reviews of existing documentation provide valuable insights.
• Setting the Direction: An educator leads the IEP development process with input from the team.
• Timeframe: IEPs are completed within 30 school days of the school year/semester start or a student’s IEP program entry.
• Parent Consultation: Parents are actively involved through meetings, surveys, and reviewing the draft IEP to share their perspectives.

Implementation and Review:

• Putting the Plan into Action: We strive to implement the program and services outlined in a student’s IEP.
• Accommodation During Assessments: We offer various accommodations during final assessments based on individual needs and documented information within the IEP.
• Ongoing Review and Updates: The IEP is reviewed and updated regularly to reflect a student’s progress and changing needs.

Spark Asher Academy is dedicated to fostering an inclusive learning environment where all students can thrive. We believe in personalized learning and providing the necessary support for students with IEPs to achieve their academic goals.

If you have any questions regarding IEPs or our support services, please don’t hesitate to contact us.