IEP & PPT Basics
What does the acronym PPT stand for?
Planning and Placement Team
What is the main difference between an accommodation and a modification?
An accommodation changes how you learn (e.g., extra time/quiet room). A modification changes what you are expected to learn (e.g., reduced number of test questions)
What does Self-Advocacy mean?
Understanding your strengths, needs, and goals—and speaking up for yourself to get what you need
True or False: Colleges automatically implement your high school IEP when you enroll
False. Colleges do not have IEPs. Students must register with the college's Disability Services office to request 504/ADA accommodations
What are Executive Functioning skills?
Brain skills used for planning, organizing, managing time, controlling impulses, focusing, and staying focused working toward goals
What does IEP stand for, and what is its main purpose?
Individualized Education Program. Its purpose is to outline the unique supports, services, and goals a student needs to succeed in school.
Name 3 classroom accommodations a student might have on their IEP
Answers can vary (e.g., extra time on tests, preferential seating, breaks, access to teacher notes, separate setting for tests, calculator, etc.)
True or False: Only a Case Manager or Administrator can ask to hold a PPT meeting before the annual review.
False. Parents, teachers, or other support staff can request a PPT at any point during the school year if concerns arise
At what age does official Transition Planning typically start on an IEP in Connecticut?
Age 13
What is the main purpose of your Academic Support Class (ASC)?
To work on IEP goals, build executive functioning skills, practice self-advocacy, transition skills, and get support on academic coursework
True or False: A school is only required to hold a PPT meeting once every two years
False: A PPT meeting must be held at least once a year (Annual Review)
Which of the following is an example of a modification?
A) Extra time on an essay
B) Using a calculator on a math test
C) Reducing the number of multiple-choice options on an exam
D) Taking a test in a separate room
C) Reducing the number of multiple-choice options on an exam
What step should you take if you feel one of your teachers isn't providing your accommodations?
Talk to the teacher privately to remind them (self-advocacy) or talk to your Case Manager for help
Why might someone choose to disclose a disability to an employer or workplace?
To request reasonable workplace accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) so they can do their job effectively
Besides your classroom teachers, name 3 other staff members who might attend a PPT or support you at school
Answers can vary (e.g., school counselor, psychologist, social worker, speech therapist, administrator, OT, PT, yourself, parents, case manager)
What is a Triennial Review?
A re-evaluation meeting that happens every three years to review eligibility and overall progress.
What accommodations can a student receive for state or district-wide testing?
Answers will vary (e.g., text-to-speech, extra time, quiet testing room, small group testing, frequent breaks)
What are two specific ways you can prepare for your PPT meeting?
Answers can vary (e.g., reviewing your current goals, making a list of accommodations that work/don't work, writing down questions)
What is the Transfer of Rights?
When a student turns 18 (age of majority), their legal educational rights transfer from their parents/guardians to the student, unless legal guardianship was established.
How many times a year do your teachers issue formal progress reports on your IEP goals?
Typically 4 times a year (one a quarter)
Who is your case manager?
Your ASC teacher
What is the key difference between an IEP and a 504 plan?
An IEP provides specialized instruction and individualized goals under special education law (IDEA). A 504 plan provides accommodations/access in general education under civil rights law without specialized instruction or goal tracking.
Which piece of information is NOT found on your IEP?
A) Student Strengths
B) Disability Category
C) Student Birthday
D) List of your general education teachers' personal schedules
D) List of your general education teachers' personal schedules
How can a student exit Special Education Services?
By graduating high school, being evaluated by the team and no longer meeting eligibility criteria, or by self exiting
True or False: All students who take an adult-supported class have an IEP goal specifically written for that subject
False. All students, with or without an IEPs can be placed in an adult-supported classroom