What does IDEA require for IEP development and placement decisions?

• A. Placement decisions without evaluation
• B. A fixed classroom assignment regardless of needs
• C. One-size-fits-all plan
• D. Individualized plans, least restrictive environment, and parent participation

Answer: (D)

IDEA requires that IEPs are individualized for each eligible student, that placement decisions be based on the least restrictive environment (LRE), and that parents participate in planning and decision-making. An IEP is developed after a thorough evaluation to identify the student’s unique strengths and needs and to determine appropriate services and supports. LRE means the child should be educated with non-disabled peers to the maximum extent appropriate, with specialized supports or modifications as needed. Active parent involvement is required, and parents must be informed, invited to participate in meetings, and provide consent for evaluations and services.

The other options clash with IDEA: making placement decisions without evaluation bypasses eligibility and needs assessment; a fixed classroom assignment ignores the individual and the possibility of providing needed supports in the general environment; and a one-size-fits-all plan fails to tailor services to the student’s unique goals and requirements.