By Lateefah S. Williams, Esq.
Some families feel stigmatized by Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), so they delay or even refuse to allow their child to be assessed for learning or attention issues that may result in an IEP being developed for their child. The advantage of having an IEP is that it provides customized support and/or accommodations to students so they can learn to the best of their abilities. Unfortunately, there are so many myths, stigmas, and general misunderstandings about IEPs that concern many students and their families. Below, I explore some of the most common stigmas concerning IEPs, in hopes of clearing up some of the myths.
Myth: IEPs Are Only for Students with Severe Disabilities
One common myth is that IEPs are only for students with very severe disabilities. This is not true. IEPs are made for students with a gamut of learning differences and health issues, such as ADHD, dyslexia, depression, anxiety, and deafness to name a few. A student with mild learning difficulties may require an IEP in the same way as a student with a highly visible disability since each IEP is individualized and provides for that student’s needs.
Myth: Kids with IEPs Are Less Capable
Yet another myth is that kids who have IEPs are somehow less capable than their peers. It makes such students with IEPs feel embarrassed or ashamed. The bottom line is that an IEP does not make one less intelligent or less capable than another student. It simply means that students have certain areas in which they need a little more support . That can be as simple as extending time on tests to providing a quiet place to work for a child who has anxiety.
Myth: Having an IEP Means a Student Must Be in Special Education Classes
Some believe that if a student has an IEP, they must be placed in special education classes. While it is true that some students require more specialized instruction, most students with IEPs are placed in typical general education classes, with the majority of the student body. Many students who have IEPs are in the same classes and participate in the same activities with most of the students. Some students with an IEP are even placed in gifted classes, including students with learning-based disabilities. The goal is to include students with IEPs as much as possible with their peers. Accommodations and support can be provided in the regular classroom so that students are able to be successful without being isolated away from most of their classmates.
Myth: IEPs Are Just About Academics
Many people think IEPs are just about academics. While IEPs are designed to encompass academic goals, they also exist for other reasons, such as social skills, behavior, and emotional/mental health reasons. For example, a student with social anxiety could have an IEP that outlines techniques that will help him feel more at ease during group activities; or a student with a physical disability might have an IEP that includes accommodations such as a wheelchair or special seating in the classroom. IEPs cover many different aspects of students’ school life to ensure they have everything they need to succeed.
Myth: Having an IEP Will Follow the Student Forever
Another myth is that an IEP will “label” a student forever and it will negatively impact their future. Some individuals fear that having an IEP means the student will always be perceived as less capable. An IEP is not a lifetime label. It is a plan that covers students while they are in school. It may change as a student grows older and they have different needs. Some students with IEPs may no longer need them as they get older, especially if they develop strategies for managing their challenges. An IEP is not a negative label—it’s simply a tool for helping students succeed.
Take-Aways
There are a lot of myths about IEPs, but these programs set up students for success. IEPs are not designed to label students or treat them as if they are inferior. Rather, it’s about giving students the support they need to reach their full potential. By breaking these down myths and stigmas about IEPs, we can create an environment that is more inclusive and supportive for all students.
