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Individualized Education Program Report - Legislative Report

Report required by the 2020 Budget Act and includes recommendations for improvements in special education and a statewide template for an individualized education program (IEP).
California Department of Education

Report to the chairs of the relevant policy committees and budget subcommittees of the Legislature, the executive director of the State Board of Education or their designee, the Superintendent of Public Instruction, and the Director of Finance

Executive Summary

The Statewide IEP Workgroup, authorized by the Budget Act of 2020, Senate Bill 74, met from December 2020 to July 2021 to make recommendations to improve the process for developing individualized education programs (IEPs) for students who are eligible to receive special education and related services. The IEP for each student should be designed to improve their long-term functional and academic outcomes by capturing strengths and needs and informing learning strategies that support instruction.

The IEP template developed by the workgroup was driven by their vision that the IEP be centered on the student and their long-term goals, with a focus on increasing participation in general education for every student. Participating in high quality instruction in the general education setting produces the best outcomes for students with IEPs and to make that happen, the IEP must be a useful tool for general education teachers, describing how the student best learns and the impact of their disability.

The IEP is more than just a form. The IEP process is ongoing and improving it, as well as improving student outcomes, is dependent on systematic training and supports for all IEP team members – students, parents/guardians, providers, and administrators – that reinforces the state’s priorities for the IEP to be strengths-driven and student-centered. The workgroup recommends the adoption of a statewide IEP template to increase transparency for families and educators, support the successful inclusion of students with IEPs in general education, and improve student outcomes. The workgroup recommends an intentional transition to the statewide template advised by stakeholders and in coordination with training and supports.

You will find this report on the Sacramento County Office of Education web page External link opens in new window or tab..

Questions:   Special Education Division | 916-445-4613
Last Reviewed: Wednesday, July 15, 2026
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