IEP
IEP (Individualized Education Program) is a legally required document in schools that outlines the special education services and support a student needs. It's like a personalized roadmap that helps teachers, specialists, and parents work together to support a child with special needs. When you see this on a resume, it means the candidate has experience working with special education students and understands how to adapt teaching methods to meet individual student needs. Similar terms you might see include "504 Plan" or "Special Education Plan," but IEP is the most common and formally recognized term in U.S. schools.
Examples in Resumes
Developed and implemented IEP goals for 12 students in an inclusive classroom setting
Participated in IEP team meetings and contributed to educational planning for special needs students
Successfully tracked and documented student progress toward IEP objectives
Typical job title: "Special Education Teachers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Special Education Teachers
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you lead an IEP team meeting and ensure all stakeholders' input is considered?
Expected Answer: A senior educator should discuss experience facilitating meetings, strategies for including parents and other professionals, and methods for building consensus while keeping the student's needs central to all decisions.
Q: Describe how you would mentor new teachers in IEP development and implementation.
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate leadership skills, explain how to guide new teachers through the IEP process, share best practices for documentation, and discuss strategies for maintaining compliance with special education laws.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you track and document student progress toward IEP goals?
Expected Answer: Should explain their system for regular progress monitoring, data collection methods, and how they use this information to adjust teaching strategies and communicate with parents and team members.
Q: What strategies do you use to modify curriculum materials to meet IEP requirements?
Expected Answer: Should discuss specific examples of adapting materials, differentiating instruction, and ensuring accommodations are appropriate for individual student needs.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the essential components of an IEP?
Expected Answer: Should identify basic elements like present levels of performance, annual goals, accommodations/modifications, and service hours, showing understanding of the basic IEP structure.
Q: How do you ensure confidentiality when working with IEPs?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of privacy requirements, proper handling of sensitive documents, and understanding of who can access IEP information.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of IEP components
- Ability to implement accommodations
- Knowledge of special education laws
- Basic progress monitoring
Mid (2-5 years)
- IEP development and modification
- Progress monitoring and data collection
- Collaboration with team members
- Curriculum modification expertise
Senior (5+ years)
- IEP team leadership
- Program development and evaluation
- Staff mentoring and training
- Advanced behavior management
Red Flags to Watch For
- Lack of knowledge about special education laws and regulations
- Poor understanding of confidentiality requirements
- Inability to collaborate with other professionals
- Limited experience with progress monitoring and documentation
