Which of the following is NOT one of the five major steps in the IEP process?

• A. Initial IEP
• B. Identification via Child Find or referral
• C. Evaluation
• D. Annual budget planning

Answer: (D)

The key idea here is the sequence of actions used to identify and support a student through an IEP. The IEP process starts with finding students who may need special education (Child Find or referral), then moving to a comprehensive evaluation to determine eligibility. If the student is eligible, an initial IEP is created to set goals, services, accommodations, and placement. After that, the plan is reviewed at least annually and reevaluated as needed to update goals and services. Annual budget planning, while important for the district, is not a step in the IEP process; it deals with funding decisions rather than developing or delivering the student’s individualized services.