Which group primarily decides on the use of alternative assessments?

The primary decision-making group regarding the use of alternative assessments is the Individualized Education Program (IEP) team. This team is composed of various stakeholders, including educators, special education professionals, and parents, all of whom collaborate to develop a tailored educational plan for each student with disabilities.

Alternative assessments might be utilized for a number of reasons, such as providing a more accurate reflection of a student's skills and abilities that traditional assessments may not capture. The IEP team evaluates the individual needs of the student, taking into account their unique learning challenges, and selects assessment methods that will best measure their progress and proficiency. This ensures that assessments are aligned with the student's educational goals, allowing for a personalized and effective approach to their education.

Other groups, such as parents or guardians, play crucial roles in advocating for their children and providing insights into their needs but do not have the final say in the implementation of alternative assessments. School administrators oversee the overall educational environment and policies but typically rely on input from the IEP team for specific student assessments. Federal education officials set regulations and guidelines but do not decide on individual cases. Therefore, the IEP team is the key player in determining the most appropriate assessment strategies for students with disabilities.