Baseline
A measure of your child's current performance level before starting a new intervention or goal. It provides a starting point to track progress.
Related Terms
Present Levels of Performance (PLOP/PLAAFP)
A section of the IEP that describes how your child is currently performing academically and functionally. It's the starting point for setting goals and planning services.
Progress Monitoring
Regular assessment of your child's performance to track whether they are making progress toward their IEP goals. The school must report progress to you at least as often as report cards are issued.
Data Collection
The process of gathering information about your child's performance on IEP goals. Data is collected regularly and used to make decisions about instruction and services.
Baseline in context
Baseline comes up across the IEP process — in your IEP document, during meeting prep, and in the federal rights that protect your child. IEP Ally explains where it shows up and what to do about it.
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Upload Your IEP — Free →This glossary is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Definitions are simplified for parent-friendly understanding and may not reflect the full legal text. Consult a qualified attorney or advocate for advice about your specific situation.