To IEP or Not to IEP? That Is the Question

I was recently asked, "Does Bob have an IEP?"

No, he doesn't--here's why.

In simplest terms, an Individualized Education Program, or IEP, is a plan developed by the school, parents and other persons involved in a child's education to help the child succeed in school. IEPs are closely tied to IDEA 2004 (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act 2004) and were meant to assist children with mental and physical disabilities.

For Bob, who has bipolar disorder and ADHD, an IEP may include provisions for extra breaks (such as when he's becoming overwhelmed by noise or irritated by his classmates) and assistance with classwork when he's having problems (such as the spring, when he finds it most difficult to focus). It may include access to special services, such as one-on-one counseling or tutoring provided by the school district. It may also provide consideration for Bob's behaviors in light of his diagnosis (i.e., where another student may be automatically suspended for fighting, Bob would not).

I have a real problem with this. Yes, I believe his condition should be treated with as much seriousness as, say, a child in a wheelchair. But let's be honest--most of the rest of the world doesn't. (Most of the rest of the world isn't even so accommodating to people in wheelchairs, but that's another story.) If Bob gets used to the idea of having special provisions made for him because of his diagnosis, won't he come to expect that even after his school days are over?

I believe he will. I've reached the age where new hires in my office tend toward the young side (just out of high school and college). I've had experience with young clerks who have grown up with IEPs and now think it's really no big deal if one day, they're just too depressed to get up and come to work. They don't understand that the same rules apply to everyone, because they've spent their formative years being told otherwise.

Bob already has issues with connecting his actions to the consequences they bring. Do I really need anything reinforcing his belief he shouldn't be punished for certain offenses? Does he really need the implication he "can't help" or "can't control" his actions because he's different from his peers? He already wants the world to bend to his liking--I don't think allowing it to do so for the next 10 years will do him any favors.

I do agree with some slight modifications and consideration given to Bob when times are harder for him. That said, I want those modifications and considerations to be minimal and based on common sense, not because they're written on a piece of paper. I certainly don't want Bob to know about them (at 9, he's already a master manipulator).

I may change my mind as he gets older and "zero tolerance" policies begin to take more effect. In the meantime, I would prefer to draw as little attention to his differences as possible, for everyone's sake.