An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is the written plan for a child who qualifies for special education. It sets goals, lists services and accommodations, and is the school's promise of what it will provide. Dr. Valentine helps you read it, question it and improve it.
The special education category your child qualifies under, such as specific learning disability, autism or other health impairment.
Where your child is right now, in plain numbers. Everything else in the IEP should connect back to this.
What your child should be able to do in a year, written so progress can actually be measured.
Specialized teaching, speech, counseling, behavior support and other services, with how often and for how long.
Changes like extra time, breaks, seating or read-aloud that help your child access classwork and tests.
Where services happen and how much of the day your child spends with general education classmates.
Email the school's special education office and ask for a special education assessment. Date it and keep a copy.
In California the school has 15 days to send an assessment plan, not counting breaks over five school days. Once you sign it, the evaluation and IEP meeting must happen within 60 days.
If you disagree with the school's evaluation, you can ask for an independent evaluation at the district's expense. How that works
A free phone call to talk through where you are and what makes sense next.
General information for families, not medical or legal advice. Dr. Valentine serves families outside Kern High School District.
A free phone call with Dr. Valentine is the first step.