How should the IEP team determine the appropriate support and services for a student?

Determining the appropriate support and services for a student involves a comprehensive evaluation of the student's current level of need. This approach ensures that the IEP team understands the specific challenges and strengths the student is exhibiting at the moment, rather than solely relying on historical data or past experiences. An accurate assessment of the current needs allows the team to tailor the IEP to suit the individual requirements of the student, thereby promoting effective learning strategies and necessary accommodations.

By focusing on the current level of need, the IEP team can gather relevant data from multiple sources, including assessments, observations, and input from various stakeholders, to make informed decisions about the supports that will be most beneficial for the student. This dynamic and individualized approach increases the likelihood of positive educational outcomes and overall success in the school environment.