Event Recap

Understanding Standards-Based IEP Goals

Published: Oct. 26, 2021Updated: Aug. 9, 2025

All special education students must have academic goals written into their IEP that are aligned with the state standards associated with their grade. Dr. Caitlin Solone (education advocate, teacher educator, and faculty at UCLA) explained how to develop standards-based goals that actually work for our kids. She gave us tips on how to include functional goals that are aligned with the Common Core State Standards and explained why parent advocacy for curriculum inclusion is important for all students.

Check out the clips below for highlights or watch the full recording here (with transcript available). You can also read more from Dr. Solone in our article about how to write IEP goals.

Standards-based goals aren't limited to reading, writing, and math. They also include skills that are a bit harder to measure, like listening and communicating. Check out this clip for examples of functional skills to work into IEP goals.

Common Core Connectors and Essential Understandings are valuable resources both for teachers designing curriculum and for parents helping develop IEP goals. Listen to this clip for Dr. Solone's explanation of what CCCs/EUs are and how to use them.

Need more IEP support? Undivided can help you understand the services your child may be entitled to, learn how to advocate while fostering collaboration, and get expert tips so that you can enter your IEP meeting feeling prepared and confident. Get started here!

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Brittany OlsenUndivided Editor

An editor and cartoonist who loves using words and images to simplify and share ideas. She has ten years of experience as a copy editor and lives near Portland, Oregon. She often spends her free time going on nature walks with her dog or trying new bread recipes.

Reviewed by Meghan O'Dell, Undivided Writer and Editor

Contributor: Dr. Caitlin Solone, Education advocate, teacher-educator, and Academic Administrator for the Disability Studies program at UCLA

Each piece of content has been rigorously researched, edited, and vetted to bring you the latest and most up-to-date information. Learn more about our content and research process here.

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