how to get out of iep in high school

3 min read 09-12-2024

Getting out of an Individualized Education Program (IEP) in high school is a significant step, signifying progress and readiness for independent learning. This process requires careful planning, collaboration with your school, and a clear understanding of your academic capabilities. This article outlines the steps involved, emphasizing the importance of proactive engagement and realistic assessment.

Understanding Your IEP and Graduation Requirements

Before even considering leaving your IEP, thoroughly understand your current plan. Review your goals, accommodations, and services. Discuss these with your parents, teachers, and the special education team. Knowing what's in place helps you and your team determine when it's appropriate to transition out.

Key Questions to Ask:

What are my current IEP goals? Have I met them? Are they still relevant?
What accommodations do I currently receive? Can I successfully navigate high school coursework without them?
What support services am I using? Could these services be reduced or eliminated?
What are the graduation requirements for my school? Am I on track to meet them without IEP support?

Demonstrating Readiness to Transition Out of Your IEP

The key to successfully transitioning out of an IEP is demonstrating academic readiness and independence. This involves consistent effort and proactive engagement.

Academic Performance:

Maintain good grades: Consistent strong performance across all subjects shows you can handle the academic demands without specialized support.
Improved standardized test scores: Progress on standardized tests like the ACT or SAT reflects your ability to perform at grade level.
Successful completion of challenging courses: Enrolling in and succeeding in rigorous courses like AP or honors classes demonstrates your academic capabilities.

Independence and Self-Advocacy:

Develop effective study skills and time management techniques: Show you can organize your time and manage your workload independently.
Proactive participation in class: Active involvement indicates you're comfortable engaging in the learning environment without extra support.
Seek help when needed, but independently: Demonstrating the ability to identify areas where you need assistance and proactively seek help from teachers or tutors shows maturity and self-awareness.

The Transition Process:

The process for exiting an IEP varies by school and state. However, there are common steps involved:

Initiate a meeting: Discuss your desire to transition out of your IEP with your special education teacher and school counselor. They can help you navigate the process and prepare for the meeting.
Data review: Your progress and current IEP goals will be reviewed with your team. This includes academic records, standardized test scores, and teacher observations.
Develop a plan: If the team agrees you're ready to transition, a plan will be developed. This might involve gradually reducing accommodations or support services over time.
Monitor progress: After transitioning, monitor your academic progress to ensure you’re succeeding without IEP support. Your school may schedule check-in meetings to review your performance.
Formal exit: Once it's determined you no longer need IEP services, your IEP will be formally closed. This usually involves documentation and signatures from all relevant parties.

Preparing for Life After the IEP:

Transitioning out of an IEP is a major milestone. It's crucial to prepare for the next steps:

College applications: If you're planning to attend college, understand how your IEP history might affect applications. Some colleges may require additional documentation, but your success in transitioning out demonstrates your readiness for higher education.
Career planning: Explore career options and develop a plan for your future. Consider how your strengths and skills can be leveraged in the workforce.
Self-advocacy: Practice advocating for your needs and communicating effectively with teachers, employers, and others.

Conclusion:

Leaving your IEP is a testament to your hard work and growth. By proactively engaging in the process and demonstrating your readiness, you can successfully transition to independent learning and achieve your academic and personal goals. Remember to communicate openly with your school team throughout this journey. This collaborative approach ensures a smooth and successful transition.