Which of the following is a required component of a student's IEP?

• A. An outline for a proposed lesson plan
• B. A statement of the present levels of academic achievement and functional performance
• C. A copy of the student's schedule
• D. A record of the number of office referrals and out-of-school suspensions

Answer: (B)

The essential idea here is that an IEP must describe the student’s current abilities and needs in a way that informs goals and services. The present levels of academic achievement and functional performance (PLAAFP) provide a data-based snapshot of where the student stands academically and in everyday skills (like communication, self-care, social behavior, and movement). This baseline is what guides the development of measurable annual goals, the specific supports and services the student will receive, and how progress will be tracked. Without a clear PLAAFP, the IEP would lack a foundation for meaningful, targeted planning.

The other items aren’t required components of an IEP. An outline for a proposed lesson plan isn’t mandated because the IEP focuses on goals, supports, and services rather than a single lesson, and a student’s schedule isn’t a mandated section of the IEP. Similarly, a record of office referrals and suspensions isn’t a required IEP element, though disciplinary history may be reviewed as part of understanding the student’s needs and planning appropriate supports.