What is a PLAAFP?
When you first receive an Individualized Education Program (IEP), it can be overwhelming and confusing. Knowing where to start and how to interpret the details can be challenging. By understanding the key components of the IEP, particularly the Present Levels of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance (PLAAFP), you can gain clarity on its purpose and structure.
The PLAAFP is the root of the development of the IEP. It is used to develop a plan that includes:
- Educational Goals: Specific objectives that the child should achieve within the IEP period.
- Services and Supports: Types of assistance the child will receive, such as special education services, therapy, or accommodations.
- Instructional Strategies: Methods and techniques that will be used to help the child succeed in the classroom.
- Accommodations and Modifications: Changes or adjustments in the classroom environment or curriculum to support the child’s learning needs.
- Behavioral Supports: Strategies and interventions to address any behavioral challenges the child may face.
- Transition Planning: For older students, this includes planning for post-school goals, such as further education or employment.
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What you need to know:
What is the PLAAFP?: Discover how the PLAAFP summarizes your child’s current abilities and needs based on assessments and observations.
Role of Testing in the PLAAFP: Learn how standardized tests and other assessments provide a snapshot of your child’s strengths and challenges.
Data in the PLAAFP: Explore the various ways data is gathered, from teacher observations to parent input, and how it supports the PLAAFP.
Translating Data into Action: Understand how raw test scores and data points are transformed into actionable goals and interventions in the PLAAFP.
Review for Quality: Tips on how to review and question the data to ensure it truly reflects your child’s needs and abilities.
This guide will help you see how testing and data come together to create a meaningful PLAAFP, laying the groundwork for the team to make thoughtful decisions about your child’s learning and future success.
To help you navigate the ins and outs of your child’s IEP, it’s essential to have access to reliable and accurate information. There are many resources available that can support parents in understanding special education processes. Below is a list of my favorite resources that can offer valuable guidance, insights, and answers to common questions you might have about your child’s education and rights:
