Writing a Legal, Robust and Useful IEP: The Foundation of an Effective Special Education Program

This text provides teachers and administrators with an understanding of the legal requirements of the Individualized Education Program (IEP) under law, including clarifications of how much benefit an IEP must provide based on the recent United States Supreme Court’s 2017 Endrew F. decision on the meaning of a free appropriate public education (FAPE). The book uses a case study and scenario format to clarify these legal constructs. Step-by-step, the component requirements of the IEP will be explained, and checklists of considerations, references, and exemplars will be provided for each section. Preservice and in-service teachers and administrators will find this book a useful guide and reference for the development of IEPs.

Annmarie Urso, Ph.D., has been an educator for over 40 years. She taught special education in K-12th grade rural and suburban New York State schools. Dr. Urso is a professor of teacher education at the State University of New York College at Geneseo, preparing the next generation of special education teachers to educate students with disabilities.

Dee Berlinghoff, Ph.D., is Professor Emerita in the Division of Education at Mount Saint Mary College in Newburgh, New York. She worked in public education and higher education for over 40 years, serving as a classroom teacher, professor, and embedded coach for teachers.