Stop Giving Answers To Students With IEPs

By: Tahje Kittell, EC Oakland Cohort 5 Fellow

As I observe my peers, I’ve noticed a significant aspect of our education system, which involves IEPs, Individualized Education Plans (or Program). These plans are designed to tailor education to the unique needs of students. While the intention is to help, I’ve identified some areas that we need to address.

The Honest Issue with IEPs

In middle school, and even now in High School, I’ve witnessed teachers and paraprofessionals frequently provide answers to students with IEPs, without pushing them to go through the process of actually solving the problem. This approach denies students with IEPs the chance to fully engage and analyze problems effectively. It hinders their learning and ability to achieve at higher levels.

For instance, I’ve seen IEP work where the solution is almost handed to the student, or no work is shown nor explained to prove they got the answer on their own. The method may be different, but the fact remains the same. The student is not encouraged or challenged to go deeper into the problem. I find this problematic because it doesn’t teach them how to dissect and understand challenges independently.

The Disadvantages

As a non-IEP student, I’ve noticed a disparity. Other students perceive my work as more challenging, not necessarily because it is, but because they haven’t been conditioned to approach problems with a mindset to get to the solution. This isn’t just academic; it’s even in other areas like life skills. Without the ability to analyze and solve problems, IEP students might find themselves at a disadvantage in real-world situations.

A New Approach

Schools need to adjust how they approach IEPs. The goal should be to teach students how to use their unique strengths to solve problems. Educators should recognize and nurture all individual learning styles, guiding students to learn through them, rather than simply making it easier for them and not holding them accountable to meeting expectations.

Empowering Students

By rethinking our approach to IEPs, schools can empower students to become independent problem solvers. This change is not just about improving academic outcomes; it’s about equipping students with the skills they need to navigate life successfully through all obstacles. As a fellow student, I believe this change is crucial for the overall development of my peers.