Parents Column
by Randy Green
Spring is almost upon us and spring is IEP
season for children with special needs in public
schools. A Positive Student Profile, as outlined
below, can be a helpful form for parents and
teachers to use during the IEP process. Parents
can update the Positive Student Profile every
year and include information from your child’s
teachers and therapists. It is important that
the profile focus on what your child can do.
This will be helpful when setting up new IEP
goals. The profile can be included in your child’s
IEP as part of his/her educational status. The
profile below is presented with standard questions,
and examples of helpful answers.
Positive Student Profile
This form is to be filled out by the parent(s)
to provide a “snapshot” of their
child, which should be reflected in his/her
IEP.
1. Who is my child? (Describe your child, including
information such as place in family, personality,
likes and dislikes.)
• youngest child; Jaclyn's brother, loves
to help
• favorite subjects are the space shuttle
and science, enjoys surfing the internet
• likes to discuss his accomplishments
2. What are my child’s strengths? (Highlight
all areas in which your child does well, including
educational and social environments.)
• imitates well, loves to help others
• has a great sense of humor, anticipates
the needs of others
• reminds others of details (forgotten
shopping lists; lights to turn out)
3. What are my child’s successes? (List
all successes, no matter how small.)
• developed close circle of friends
• voted “most helpful” by
his peers
• organized, a good role model for others
4. What are my child’s greatest challenges?
(List the areas in which your child has the
greatest difficulties.)
• inability to communicate clearly, which
causes high frustration level
• difficulty with transitions and new
places, dislikes unexpected change
• difficulty completing an assignment
without assistance
5. What supports are needed for my child? (List
supports that will help your child achieve his/her
potential.)
• to observe and learn from 'typical'
peers
• to have a circle of friends for support
• to have a routine which is structured,
yet flexible, to allow for increased tolerance
to change
6. What are my dreams for my child? (Describe
your vision for your child’s future
including short-term and long-term goals.)
• continue to have a circle of friends
• expand his ability to communicate
• live as independently as possible
7. Other helpful information. (List any pertinent
information, including health care needs that
have not been detailed elsewhere on the form.)
