IEP
An IEP (Individualized Education Program) is a legally required document and process in schools that creates a personalized learning plan for students with special needs. Think of it as a roadmap that teachers, parents, and school staff use to help students with disabilities succeed in school. It outlines what special services, modifications, and support a student needs, similar to how a doctor writes a treatment plan for a patient. When you see IEP on a resume, it means the person has experience working with special education students and understands how to create, implement, or manage these customized learning plans.
Examples in Resumes
Developed and managed 30+ IEPs annually for diverse student needs
Participated in IEP team meetings as special education coordinator
Successfully implemented IEP goals and accommodations in classroom setting
Led IEP documentation and compliance processes for department of 5 teachers
Typical job title: "Special Education Teachers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Special Education Teachers
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Boards
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a situation where parents disagree with the IEP team's recommendations?
Expected Answer: A senior educator should discuss building consensus through clear communication, documenting all concerns, knowing legal requirements, and finding compromise while maintaining focus on student needs. They should mention experience with conflict resolution and knowledge of parent rights.
Q: Describe how you would lead and mentor other teachers in IEP implementation.
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate leadership experience in training others, sharing best practices, ensuring compliance, and supporting new teachers with IEP processes while maintaining confidentiality and professional standards.
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 report to parents and team members.
Q: What strategies do you use to modify curriculum materials to meet IEP requirements?
Expected Answer: Should describe practical examples of adapting materials, differentiating instruction, and implementing accommodations while maintaining grade-level standards when possible.
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, service hours, and progress measurement methods.
Q: How do you prepare for an IEP meeting?
Expected Answer: Should discuss gathering student data, preparing progress reports, reviewing current goals, and ensuring all required team members are notified and necessary documentation is ready.
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
- Effective collaboration with team members
- Advanced progress monitoring
- Behavior management strategies
Senior (5+ years)
- IEP team leadership
- Program compliance oversight
- Staff training and mentoring
- Complex case management
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unfamiliarity with special education laws and regulations
- Poor communication or documentation skills
- Lack of experience in collaborative team settings
- Unable to explain different types of accommodations and modifications
