Recruiter's Glossary

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IEP (Individualized Education Program)

Term from Disability Services industry explained for recruiters

An IEP (Individualized Education Program) is a legally required document and process in schools that creates a personalized learning plan for students with disabilities. Think of it as a roadmap that outlines specific educational goals, support services, and accommodations a student needs to succeed in school. Teachers, specialists, and school staff use IEPs to ensure students receive appropriate educational support, similar to how a doctor uses a treatment plan. Other terms you might see include "Individual Education Plan" or "Individualized Learning Plan," though IEP is the official term used in U.S. schools.

Examples in Resumes

Developed and implemented IEP goals for 25+ special education students

Participated in IEP team meetings and provided progress reports for 30 students annually

Collaborated with general education teachers to ensure IEP accommodations were properly implemented

Led Individualized Education Program development and review meetings with parents and staff

Typical job title: "Special Education Teachers"

Also try searching for:

Special Education Teacher IEP Coordinator Special Education Case Manager Learning Support Specialist Special Education Specialist Educational Consultant School Psychologist

Where to Find Special Education Teachers

Professional Organizations

Online Communities

Job Resources

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 professional should discuss conflict resolution strategies, knowledge of legal requirements, ability to document all communications, and experience building consensus while maintaining focus on student needs. They should mention the importance of clear communication and understanding parents' perspectives.

Q: How do you mentor new teachers in IEP development and implementation?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate leadership experience, ability to guide others through the IEP process, knowledge of best practices in documentation, and strategies for supporting new teachers while ensuring compliance with special education laws.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you ensure IEP goals are measurable and appropriate?

Expected Answer: Should explain how to write specific, measurable goals, use assessment data to inform goal setting, and track progress effectively. Should mention the importance of aligning goals with grade-level standards while maintaining appropriate expectations.

Q: Describe your process for conducting an annual IEP review.

Expected Answer: Should outline steps for gathering data, coordinating with team members, preparing progress reports, scheduling meetings, and updating goals based on student progress. Should demonstrate knowledge of timeline requirements and documentation needs.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the essential components of an IEP?

Expected Answer: Should identify key elements like present levels of performance, annual goals, accommodations/modifications, service minutes, and progress monitoring plans. Basic understanding of legal requirements should be demonstrated.

Q: How do you track student progress on IEP goals?

Expected Answer: Should describe basic data collection methods, progress monitoring tools, and how to document student achievement. Should show understanding of the importance of regular progress monitoring.