What is the required response by the IEP team if recommended services for a qualified student are unavailable?

The correct response by the IEP team when recommended services for a qualified student are unavailable is to arrange for and offer the services needed by the student. This is in alignment with the requirements of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), which mandates that schools provide a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) to students with disabilities. The goal of an IEP is to ensure that students receive the specific supports and services they need to access the curriculum and make progress in their education.

When there is a gap in service availability, it is the responsibility of the IEP team to actively seek alternative arrangements to ensure that those necessary services are provided, whether through different providers, staff training, or other means. This proactive approach emphasizes the commitment of the educational team to meet the individual needs of the student and uphold their educational rights.

The other options, while they may seem relevant, do not align with the legal and ethical obligations of the IEP team. Offering unrelated services, suggesting parents seek outside help, or merely informing parents of budget constraints do not fulfill the requirement to provide the necessary services to support the student’s educational needs. These alternatives do not address the student’s immediate needs and would likely not comply with IDEA mandates.