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Guest Edition: Why Your Child Needs a Person-First Approach to IEP Assessments

Creating an effective Individualized Education Program (IEP) requires a comprehensive understanding of a student’s unique needs, abilities, and preferences, and prior history. Traditionally, assessments for IEPs have focused on identifying deficits and areas requiring support. However, the growing adoption of a person-centered approach is revolutionizing how we assess and support students with disabilities and various learning differences. This approach emphasizes understanding the whole person, their strengths, preferences, and goals, leading to more tailored and impactful educational plans with increased buy-in from the student and the family themselves. 



What is a Person-Centered Approach?


A person-centered approach to an assessment for an IEP prioritizes the individual's unique qualities, preferences, & history, ensuring that their voice is central in the planning and decision-making process. This methodology shifts the focus from a problem-solving framework to one that celebrates the student’s strengths and potential. It involves collaboration among educators, parents, and the students themselves to create a supportive and empowering educational environment.



Benefits of a Person-Centered Approach to Assessments


Empowering Students and Families:


By actively involving students and their families in the assessment process, we ensure that their perspectives, experiences, and hopes are integral to the IEP. This

empowerment fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility, encouraging students to take an active role in their educational journey. It also helps families feel more

connected and engaged with their child’s education, leading to stronger support

systems at home and school.



Holistic Understanding of the Student:


A person-centered assessment looks beyond academic performance to consider the student’s emotional, social, and physical well-being, also taking into account prior developmental history and any potential “trauma”. This comprehensive understanding enables educators to design IEPs that address all aspects of a student’s life, ensuring that support is well-rounded and meaningful. By recognizing and valuing the whole person, we can create more effective and compassionate educational strategies.



Strength-Based Planning:


Focusing on strengths rather than deficits changes the narrative from what the student cannot do to what they can and will achieve. This positive perspective helps build confidence and motivation, encouraging students to leverage their strengths in overcoming challenges. Strength-based planning can lead to more creative and engaging educational experiences, fostering a love for learning and personal growth while also holding the goal of scaffolding and support until the student no longer requires it. 



Improved Educational Outcomes:


When students are assessed in a manner that respects their individuality and involves their input, the resulting IEPs are more likely to be relevant and effective. Person- centered assessments lead to more accurate identification of support needs and the development of strategies that truly resonate with the student. This alignment between assessment and intervention can significantly improve educational outcomes and overall student well-being.



What Implementing a Person-Centered Approach Actually Looks Like


Inclusive Assessment Processes:


Ensure that students and their families are active participants in the assessment process. This can involve pre-assessment meetings to gather insights, ongoing communication and interviews during the assessment, and collaborative discussions when developing the IEP. By making the process inclusive, we ensure that the student’s voice is heard and valued as a team member.



Comprehensive Data Collection:


Use a variety of assessment tools and methods to gather a holistic view of the student. This can include academic tests, observations, interviews, rating scales and questionnaires that explore the student’s interests, strengths, history and preferences. Combining quantitative and qualitative data provides a richer and more accurate picture of the student.



Focus on Strengths and Preferences:


Make it a priority to identify and highlight the student’s strengths, interests, and preferences. Use this information to guide the development of the IEP, ensuring that the educational plan builds on what the student does well and enjoys. This approach not only enhances motivation but also makes learning more meaningful and relevant.



Regular Review and Adaptation:


A person-centered approach requires ongoing assessment and adaptation. Regularly review the IEP with the student and their family (each year at minimum) to ensure that it continues to meet their needs and aspirations. Be open to making adjustments based on feedback and changing circumstances, ensuring that the educational plan remains dynamic and responsive to the changing student’s needs appropriately. 


Adopting a person-centered approach to assessments for IEPs is a transformative practice that places the student at the heart of the educational process. By focusing on the whole person and valuing their unique qualities, we can create more effective, supportive, and empowering educational experiences. This approach not only enhances educational outcomes but also fosters a more inclusive and compassionate learning environment. 



If you or someone you know needs more support regarding Special Education laws, processes, or best practices, make sure to follow @wholistically_psyched on instagram and be sure to download these four FREE guides that address behavior, student supports, and development. 





Mariah Choate, M. S. Nationally Certified School Psychologist, Wholistically PsychEd


After 12+ years working with students of all ages and being a school psychologist who LOVED her field, Mariah saw firsthand the sad limitations of the public school system. Overworked teachers, uninformed parents, struggling, students, and frustration all around! Mariah now is sharing all that she has learned to help teachers and parents support their students the best they can (while skipping the frustration and getting empowered with special education laws & processes!).

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