What does the Present Levels of Performance in an IEP describe?

• A. It evaluates the school budget.
• B. It identifies how a student’s disability affects progress in school.
• C. It lists the student’s extracurricular activities.
• D. It is the contact information of the IEP team.

Answer: (B)

The Present Levels of Performance is a snapshot of where the student is right now in both academics and functional skills, and it explains how the student’s disability affects progress in the school setting. It covers current achievement in areas like reading, math, and writing, as well as functional areas such as communication, behavior, social skills, and independence. It notes the student’s strengths and needs, includes baseline data, and uses information from multiple sources (work samples, grades, tests, observations, and input from teachers, family, and the student) to show how the disability impacts participation and progress.

This description directly informs what the student needs to reach annual goals, what accommodations or modifications are appropriate, and which related services should be provided. It also helps determine the most suitable placement and supports to ensure meaningful access to the general education curriculum. It is not about the school budget, extracurricular activities, or contact information.