Do your child’s IEP present level of performance statement in his IEP specify what he is ABLE to do?  What exactly is the IEP present level of performance statement?

Definition of the IEP present level of performance:

Present means – Current, happening now, at this moment.

Level – A position on a scale of intensity or amount or quality; ‘a moderate degree of intelligence’; ‘a high level of care is required’; ‘it is all a matter of degree’.” (according to WordNet Dictionary on Vortex.com)

Performance – “That which is performed or accomplished; a thing done or carried through; an achievement; a deed; an act; a feat.” (according to Webster’s 1913 Dictionary on Vortex.com)

From the definition of “performance”, there is a notably positive point of view towards accomplishment. A child’s IEP present level of performance statement should be phrased positively. It should focus on strengths.

It is important to cover strengths so the best way to teach the child becomes evident.. And remember, EVERY child HAS strengths!

The iep present level of performance statement gives clear, objective information about a child’s abilities and limitations. The PLOP defines how your child’s abilities and limitations affect his ability to progress in the general classroom curriculum.

When considering the contents of your child’s IEP, it is good to consider the best approach to IEP meetings too. At the beginning of the process, a parent is often confused about how to proceed.

This article, “Ten Common Mistakes Parents Make During the IEP Meeting“, by KIDS TOGETHER, Inc. is an excellent overview of what to do and not to do. The time it will take you to read the article will save you hours of stress and strain in the future!

To prepare for your child’s next IEP meeting, begin by thinking about your child’s strengths. Take time now to make yourself a “Special Education Notebook” to track and plan your child’s education.

Your IEP notebook can be a simple 3-ring binder with tabbed dividers for each section of the IEP. In the IEP present level of performance section, list your child’s strengths. Also list his learning style.

Keep track of all of your child’s testing and objective data. Having a section for your child’s work samples can be important for reminding everyone how your child is actually doing. Relying on people’s memories or perceptions can lead to statements of performance that are too low or too high.