Josie Marino, B.Ed., B.A. (Hons), M.Ed 
IEP Consultant

An Individualized Education Plan (IEP) consultation is a cooperative effort designed to assist children and teenagers with distinct educational requirements, along with their parents. Below is a breakdown of the essential elements involved:
1.	Assessment: The process usually starts with evaluating the child's particular learning needs, strengths, and obstacles. This evaluation often includes input from educators, specialists, and parents. Clinical psychologists may conduct psycho-educational assessments to gain insight into the child’s specific learning requirements.
2.	Setting Goals: After identifying the child's needs, the IEP team—which consists of parents, teachers, and specialists—establishes specific, measurable, and attainable educational objectives. These objectives should cater to the child’s academic, social, and developmental needs.
3.	Creating the IEP: Utilizing the assessment and established goals, Josie formulates a tailored IEP for the child. This plan delineates the services, accommodations, and modifications necessary for achieving the child’s objectives. It might encompass specialized instruction, assistive technology, or additional support services.
4.	Consultation with Parents: Parents are crucial to the IEP process. They are actively engaged in the development and evaluation of the plan to ensure that it meets their child's unique needs and targets.
5.	Regular Reviews: The IEP is a flexible document that undergoes regular reviews and updates, typically on an annual basis, though it can be adjusted as the child’s needs evolve. These assessments review progress toward the goals and implement any required modifications to the plan.
6.	Empowering Parents and Students: IEP consultations empower both parents and students by enhancing their understanding of their rights and responsibilities within the educational framework. This includes awareness of available support services, legal protections, and resources.
7.	Advocacy: IEP consultations aim to empower both parents and students with the necessary skills to effectively advocate for their needs within the educational system. This includes guidance on how to engage with teachers, administrators, and support staff to ensure the successful implementation of the IEP.
8.	Ensuring Proper Support: The main objective of IEP consultations is to guarantee that appropriate supports and accommodations are established in the school environment to aid the child’s learning and development. This could entail providing specialized instruction, access to therapeutic services, or the use of assistive technologies.
9.	Inclusion and Equity: IEP consultations also encourage inclusive and equitable educational practices. They highlight the significance of customizing educational approaches to address individual needs and ensuring that all students have fair access to educational resources.

At CARE, Josie assist parents and caregivers in the development or modification of IEPs. She works collaboratively with parents and students to enhance their understanding of their rights and responsibilities as learners and to build their confidence in self-advocacy. Therapists may also participate in the IEP team, providing support to parents and students during meetings with educators.

Josie Marino

Services

VIRTUAL Individual Educational Plan Consultation

VIRTUAL Individual Educational Plan Consultation

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