Define the required composition of the IEP team for initial eligibility determinations, and what is each member's role?

• A. The child and parent only; no other professionals.
• B. The parent, general education teacher, special education teacher, school administrator or representative, the child (when appropriate), evaluation personnel, and other specialists as needed.
• C. Only the principal and teacher.
• D. The parent and student, with no other professionals.

Answer: (B)

For initial eligibility determinations, the team must bring together diverse expertise and input to make a well-supported decision. The parent provides crucial background, family priorities, and consent, ensuring the child’s history and needs are understood from the home perspective. A general education teacher offers insight into how the child functions in the regular classroom and what accommodations might help the student access the curriculum. The special education teacher contributes specialized instructional knowledge and practical implications for designing appropriate supports if eligibility is found. A school administrator or LEA representative ensures the team has the authority and resources to implement services. The child’s involvement, when appropriate, adds the student’s voice and goals to the planning process. Evaluation personnel gather and interpret the data across assessments to determine whether a disability is present and the type and extent of services needed. Other specialists are included as needed to address specific areas—such as speech, psychology, or occupational therapy—providing targeted information to inform the eligibility decision. This combination ensures decisions are data-driven, rights-protective, and resource-informed.