During what stage of the educational process is an IEP developed?

An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is developed when a student is identified as needing special education services. This identification process typically involves a comprehensive evaluation that might include assessments from various professionals, input from parents, and observations of the student's performance in the classroom. Once a student is determined to have a disability that impacts their educational performance, the IEP team—comprised of educators, special education professionals, and the child's parents—comes together to create a tailored educational plan. The IEP outlines specific goals, accommodations, and services that the student requires to succeed in school.

Developing the IEP at this stage ensures that the educational needs of the student are addressed from the very beginning of receiving special education services, allowing for a structured approach to supporting their learning throughout the year. Other options do not capture the timing of when the IEP is most appropriately developed in conjunction with the student’s needs. For example, creating an IEP before enrollment would not account for the necessary assessments and evaluations, while doing so after multiple failures or at the end of the school year would miss the proactive nature of planning for a student’s educational journey.