Scenario: An IEP team is being formed for a 5th grader newl…
Scenario: An IEP team is being formed for a 5th grader newly identified with a learning disability. During planning, the staff debate which members are legally required under IDEA: Mr. Lewis (psychologist) argues that a professional who can interpret the evaluation results must attend. Ms. Carter (general education teacher) believes her participation is only optional, since the student spends most of the day in special education. The parents are invited, but one staff member questions whether IDEA requires them to attend if the school already understands the child’s needs. The principal insists that IDEA requires either the school administrator or the principal specifically to be present at all IEP meetings. The special education coordinator asks: “Which of these positions is not explicitly specified in IDEA as a required member of an IEP team?” (2)