Do children with disabilities (from IFSP) automatically get IEP services?

Do children with disabilities (from IFSP) automatically get IEP services?

• A. Yes, automatically
• B. Only if the child has an IEP already
• C. Not automatically (unless moving from another place with IEP services); have to get an evaluation first
• D. They are not eligible for IEP services ever

Answer: (C)

A child moving from early intervention under an IFSP to services under an IEP is not guaranteed automatic eligibility. The transition to an IEP requires a formal determination of eligibility, which means an evaluation to see if the child has a disability that qualifies for special education and related services. If there’s already an IEP in place from another setting, that arrangement may continue or be carried over while transition plans are completed, but in most cases a new evaluation is needed to start an IEP. So, eligibility for IEP services isn’t automatic after an IFSP; an evaluation (unless an existing IEP can be continued from another place) is required to determine if the child qualifies.

A child moving from early intervention under an IFSP to services under an IEP is not guaranteed automatic eligibility. The transition to an IEP requires a formal determination of eligibility, which means an evaluation to see if the child has a disability that qualifies for special education and related services. If there’s already an IEP in place from another setting, that arrangement may continue or be carried over while transition plans are completed, but in most cases a new evaluation is needed to start an IEP. So, eligibility for IEP services isn’t automatic after an IFSP; an evaluation (unless an existing IEP can be continued from another place) is required to determine if the child qualifies.