[color=blue]Hi! I am wondering what to do . I get goals for my kid that come from a computer program that has all ofthe core curriculum standards for the state of NJ. My daughter’s individual concerns are matched up to these goals and that is all they put into the IEP. Since every child in the state( with some exceptions) has to meet these goals, I don’t see how this is in any way “individualized”. I want goals for things she needs to work on, like poor spelling that accompanes her CAPD. I want some sort of progress report on a regular basis besides a set of boxes with check marks that give the option of : introduced, progresing, mastered. That seems too vague. I have been asking for measurable IEP goals for three years. Every book I have read says I should be able to get this. Has anyone out there won this battle? If so, did it take an advocate or attorney? How did it turn out? [color=blue][/color][/color]
CAPD and IEP goals
In order to get the kind of individualization that was needed for my dd I had to hire an advocate. This was a great investment because it put the school and district on notice that I was serious about getting what my dd needed, not what they grudgingly offered. I only needed the advocate for 1 year and after that they have been more cooperative. I also go to a lot of trainings on special education law to keep myself up-to-date on the language and laws.
Re: CAPD and IEP goals
Your requests for student progress is not an unusual request. As a special education teacher, I found that an informal note log sent home daily or weekly keeps parents informed of progress, not only in the goal areas, but in overall progress. Technically, IEP goals are written as “a team.” Unfortunately, most goals are written in draft form before the meeting to facilitate expediency. You may request a copy of the draft of proposed goals before the meeting so you can add your input and be prepared with your recommendations. There has been some changes in IDEA 2007 in regards to goals and progress reports in the IEP proces - and an advocate maybe helpful. However, they may be expensive and you may try to resolve your issue informally first. I wish you well. My experience is that parental involvement is key for a child’s success in school.
In Michigan such computerized lists are discouraged..IEP is supposed to address individual learning issues.
Contact your state Department of Education and find out if this is acceptable practice.
James Nuttall — Michigan