Description and Rationale
IDEA 2004(300.320(1)) requires functional outcomes to be addressed on all IEPs. The ECC Needs Assessment is a screening tool that collects strength-based information from teachers, families, students, and other service providers on each area of the ECC. In addition, the tool also collects information on the needs of the student. From the needs the team selects 2-3 priority areas to focus on for the upcoming school year. This tool and process begins the conversation on the ECC and allows for common terminology and understanding. This tool and procedure does not take the place of an age-level or grade-level assessment. Ideally this tool is completed as part of the pre-IEP team meeting. See the next key component about completing specific ECC assessments.
Birth - 3 Years
ECC Needs Assessment has the following components:
- Screening tool is adapted for individual student according to age/ability/acuity
- Input from all team members
- Justification statements developed for each area
- Strengths and needs are addressed
- Priority areas are identified
3-5 Years
ECC Needs Assessment has the following components:
- Screening tool is adapted for individual student according to age/ability/acuity
- Input from all team members
- Justification statements developed for each area
- Strengths and needs are addressed
- Priority areas are identified
5-22 Years
ECC Needs Assessment has the following components:
- Screening tool is adapted for individual student according to age/ability/acuity
- Input from all team members
- Justification statements developed for each area
- Strengths and needs are addressed
- Priority areas are identified
Multiple Disabilities/Deafblind
ECC Needs Assessment has the following components:
- Screening tool is adapted for individual student according to age/ability/acuity
- Input from all team members
- Justification statements developed for each area
- Strengths and needs are addressed
- Priority areas are identified
Tips
The needs assessment screening tool identifies 2 to 3 priority areas for focused instruction for the current IEP year. TVIs are encouraged to individualize the tool for their students. TVIs should continue to monitor other areas of the ECC for future instructional needs. The pre-IEP meeting, including the student (as appropriate), is recommended to allow consensus about strengths, needs and priority areas.
Public Domain Resources
- ECC Needs Screening Tool
- Effective Assessment to Instruction Continuum Checklist
- Effective Assessments Flow Chart
- National Agenda for the Education of Children and Youths with Visual Impairments, Including Those with Multiple Disabilities: http://www.tsbvi.edu/national-agenda and http://www.afb.org/education.asp
- Content References 27
Resources for Purchase
- Content References 7, 9, 30, 31