Individual Program Plans

Looking at all of the different elements of an Individual Program Plan there are many things to keep in mind.  I have created a few IPPs in my two years of college, but have never looked at creating one from any viewpoints other than that of the teacher.  I am looking forward to creating and IPP that involves multiple perspectives so I can learn to see how different people feel about creating an IPP for a child.  It is very important as a teacher to keep the child's parents in mind when creating an IPP, as well as other members of the team, and I believe the assignemt to create an IPP this way will be useful once I graduate.

Using the various components of an IPP it will be possible to create a good, appropriate IPP for any student.  Keeping in mind the child's needs and what is the most important thing they must improve on at that time, goals must be created that are attainable.  I believe creating attainable goals are the most important part of an Individual Program Plan, and that appropriate goals will motivate to student to do their best in school.  When a student is motivated in school they will also enjoy being there much more than if they go to school only because they have to. 

The second most important part of an Individual Program Plan to me is assessment of improvement, both evaluating progess throughout the year, and the review of progress at the reporting periods.  This lets the student know where they have been improving and how to continue doing so.  Seeing their success they will be motivated to continue working to keep achieving their goals.  It also lets the members of the team know that their efforts are worth it and their time spent working on the IPP and with the student are truly making a difference. 

Overall, IPPs are very effective for students and teachers, and are important for any classroom that includes disabled students.  They may be a lot of work, but are worth it as they bring clarification for the student, as well as the team members, as to what they must do so the student can succeed.  With an IPP everyone knows what is expected of them and how they are going to go about achieving it.  They are a wonderful tool for the classroom and have a lot to offer for teachers and students.