What are 'related services' under an IEP, and how do you determine necessary related services for a student?

• A. Related services include speech-language pathology, OT/PT, counseling, transportation, etc., necessary to enable the student to benefit from special education; decision based on present levels, goals, and data.
• B. Related services are only meals and snacks.
• C. Related services are about scholarships.
• D. Related services are not considered in IEP.

Answer: (A)

Related services are the supports a student with a disability needs in addition to direct instruction to access and benefit from special education. They can include speech-language pathology, occupational therapy, physical therapy, counseling, transportation, and similar services. The IEP team determines which services are necessary by looking at the student’s present levels of performance and using data from assessments and progress monitoring to decide what supports are required to help the student meet annual goals. These services are chosen only if they are needed to enable meaningful participation and progress; they are not about meals or snacks, not about scholarships, and they are considered as part of the IEP.