What is one of the required components for an Individualized Education Program (IEP)?

• A. Detailed plan for homeschooling
• B. Behavior logs for the current year
• C. Least restrictive environment (LRE)
• D. Complete set of past report cards

Answer: (C)

An Individualized Education Program (IEP) must include a statement regarding the least restrictive environment (LRE). This component is fundamental because the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) mandates that students with disabilities should be educated alongside their non-disabled peers to the maximum extent appropriate. The IEP team is required to determine the least restrictive environment in which the student can succeed academically and socially, indicating a commitment to inclusion and providing support that does not isolate students with disabilities.

By focusing on LRE, the IEP ensures that educational placements are based on the individual needs of the student, promoting access to the general curriculum and meaningful interactions with peers. This consideration aligns with the overarching goal of providing students with the support they need while ensuring they have opportunities to participate in a typical educational setting as much as possible.