As school-based SLPs, we have packed caseloads, therapy sessions, evaluations, and IEP meetings. In the middle of all that, having a quick reference for each student makes you a little more organized. That’s where the IEP at a Glance can help you stay ready to support your students.
What Is an “IEP at a Glance”?
I know this isn’t new information for many of you, but if you are just starting in the school-based world, you need to know. The “IEP at a Glance” is a condensed summary of the most essential information from a student’s full Individualized Education Program (IEP). Instead of flipping through a 20-page document every time you need to recall a goal or accommodation, you have a one-page snapshot at your fingertips.
Most IEP systems like Embrace, will allow you to generate an IEP at Glance, which is typically one or two pages. Then what I do is print them out and put them a binder so I can flip through it. I know that everyone these days like having digital files. But it’s actually great to have it all in a binder. In fact, it can be faster to flip to a page than log into your IEP system and find individual details. It’s like a crib sheet.
Additionally, every fall I print out an IEP at a Glance for each of my speech-only students and give it to the classroom teacher so they know the goals and accommodations that the student has. I mean, if I’m already printing a copy out for the teachers, I might as well print one for myself too.
Why Every SLP Should Use Them
- Saves Time: Quickly reference goals, services, and accommodations during sessions or data collection.
- Promotes Consistency: Keeps you aligned with what’s been agreed upon in the IEP.
- Helps with Collaboration: Easy to share (confidentially) with paraprofessionals, co-teachers, or subs supporting the student.
- Prevents Oversights: Avoids missing service minutes or key accommodations during transitions or busy periods.
What to Include in an IEP at a Glance
Here’s what I usually include when I generate one inside of Embrace. I could also customize something using the below information:
- Student Name & Grade
- Disability Eligibility
- Speech-Language Goals (summarized in plain language)
- Service Minutes (including frequency and group/individual breakdown)
- Classroom Accommodations/Modifications (e.g., preferential seating, visual supports)
- Behavior or Safety Plans (if applicable)
- Assistive Technology (AAC, apps, or tools used)
- Important Dates (IEP due date, re-eval date, etc.)
- Teacher(s) / Team Contacts (if applicable)
Digital or Paper?
Some SLPs like me prefer printing and keeping them a binder. But you can use the IEP at a Glance to make digital spreadsheet and even color-code by school or grade level. Whatever you do, make sure you’re storing this information securely, in compliance with FERPA and district guidelines. I keep my binder in my locked office.
Make It a Habit
At the start of each school year (or when new students are added to your caseload), create or update your “At a Glance” sheets.
Bonus Tip: Use It as a Planning Tool
I often pull up the IEP at a Glance when writing session notes or planning lessons. It’s a great way to double-check that I’m targeting goals appropriately and embedding accommodations into activities.