How do I write IEP goals based on state standards?

Writing IEP goals based on the state academic standards can help students with IEPs access the general education curriculum with their peers. Here's a quick guide:

1. Identify the core skill of the standard. One useful resource to help you identify core skills is Core Content Connectors (CCCs), which take the most important parts of each of the standards to make sure that students with extensive support needs still can master those essential elements of each standard and maintain alignment to the grade level content.

2. Adapt the standard with support. If your child is below grade level, the standards still apply, but it will likely involve providing individualized supports to help your child access the standard. They might have a reduced or simplified assignment, in addition to support from technology or a 1:1 aide, but they’re able to access the same topics as their peers.

3. Focus on areas of need. Your child doesn't need an IEP goal for every single standard; focus goal writing on areas of most need, which can be guided by your child’s IEP assessments. Another thing to keep in mind is to write goals for skills that can generalize across many areas.

For more information about standards-based IEPs and expert tips, check out our article Why a Standards-Based IEP Matters — and How to Do It Right.