Individualized Educational Programs (IEPs) must be reviewed and revised at least annually as stipulated by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Reauthorization of IDEA in 1997 included specific requirements for students with disabilities and their families to become full-fledged participants on IEP teams. The change signaled a movement from an institution-centered to a person-centered approach. This article outlines person-centered planning (PCP) methods to assist parents and professionals in this process. First, we offer a brief review of literature summarizing parents' and professionals' opinions about the value of the IEP. Then, two methods of person-centered planning are explained and illustrated via two case studies. We describe our uses of PCP methods for IEPs and finally conclude by suggesting ways that PCP methods may improve the overall outcomes for students in special education programs.
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