Let's tackle the IEP goal pages today. Let's talk about the elements of a smart goal and best ways to advocate for each part.
Let's look at each portion of a smart goal and how to apply them to your child's IEP.
1. Specific. A goal needs to be very specific. If it is too general, it will be hard to apply the following parts of a smart goal. This is the first step but without a strong specific goal every other part of the process will fall flat.
2. Measurable. A goal must be measurable. The process of measuring the goal should be well defined on each goal page of the IEP. It is important that a parent advocate for the measurement of the goal that actually measure the goal. If you don't understand the terms, ask! Don't be afraid to question the procedure if you don't understand it or feel it is not measuring what it should.
3.Attainable. It should be a realistic goal that should be attainable in the time set in the IEP. Sometimes too lofty goals are set but this isn't often the problem. Many times the goals set are not very aggressive. If the goals aren't very aggressive, a child won't make very much progress.
4. Relevant. Is this goal taking my child to the next step? Is this the correct step? There are lots of good things, What is relevant for one child may not be relevant for another. A child where the biggest need is functional reading skills may not need a comprehension goal that includes lots of vocabulary that is not used in everyday conversation. What are the skills that YOUR child needs? Are there steps being skipped that are really necessary? These are questions that need to be asked!
5. Time-Bound. An IEP goal is usually written for a year. It is important to watch the data/progress monitoring and request a new goal once it's met. If progress isn't being made toward the goal after a few weeks it is probably time to call the IEP team together and find out why. Some new strategies or approaches may be needed.
As a parent, there is a learning curve when it comes to being an active member of the IEP team. It is to understand what is involved with good goals so you can evaluate and contribute to the process in a calm but meaningful way.
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