"The goals are copy-pasted from last year."
A repeated goal may be appropriate only if current data explains why it remains the right target and what will change in instruction. Federal rules require measurable annual goals that address disability-related needs. For a focused review of your child's goals, book a $29 overview with Stephanie Wynn.
The Five Parts of a Usable Goal
Look for:
- A current baseline showing where the student starts.
- A specific academic or functional skill.
- The condition under which the skill will be demonstrated.
- A measurable level of accuracy, frequency, duration, or independence.
- A timeframe and stated method for measuring progress.
Will improve reading is not enough to tell a parent or teacher what success looks like. A goal should allow different readers to reach the same conclusion about whether it was met.
Stephanie Wynn's Recommendation
Place last year's goal, this year's proposed goal, and the current baseline side by side. Ask what new data supports repeating or changing the target and what instruction will be different.
Goals Should Drive Services and Reporting
The team should be able to explain how services support each goal and how progress will be measured. If the measurement method is unclear, meaningful progress reporting becomes almost impossible.
Bring the last two IEPs and recent evaluations to compare baselines, targets, and results. Reserve your $29 first-client overview before the next annual meeting.
