What is an Individualized Education Plan (IEP)?

An Individualized Education Plan (IEP) is a critical document designed specifically to address the unique educational needs of a child with a disability, including autism. The IEP outlines tailored educational goals, accommodations, and services that are necessary to support the child's learning and development in a school environment. This personalized approach is essential because it ensures that each child's specific challenges and strengths are taken into account, allowing for a more effective educational experience.

The IEP is created through collaboration among educators, specialists, and the child's parents, ensuring that it reflects the individual needs and preferences of the student. It includes measurable goals, outlines the specific services the child will receive (such as speech therapy or additional support in the classroom), and describes how progress will be monitored. This level of customization is vital for children with autism, as they often require specialized strategies to thrive in an educational setting.

In contrast, classroom design, curriculum modifications, and standard protocols are much broader concepts that do not specifically address the individualized nature of the educational planning required for a child with a disability. Thus, option B accurately captures the essence of what an IEP is meant to accomplish.