How to Improve the PLAAFP Statements in Your IEPs

Let’s talk about PLAAFP statements - the heart of an IEP. I find a common statement in many PLAAFP statements that I find so frustrating - “no concerns” - without any data to back it up. 

If that’s you, consider this a friendly call-out—we can do better! PLAAFP statements are simply the most important part of an IEP and set the stage for everything that follows. So, let's get into the art and science of crafting an effective PLAAFP statement.

What is PLAAFP?

PLAAFP stands for Present Levels of Academic and Functional Performance. Yeah, it’s a mouthful, but it's the heart and soul of the IEP. This section of the IEP is not a place for you (or anyone) to simply list facts. The PLAAFP is where the whole picture of the student should be painted. It’s about capturing who the student truly is. 

Here’s your guide on what to include, what to skip, where to find this crucial info, and who to talk to.

Why PLAAFP Statements are Crucial

PLAAFP statements set the stage for the entire IEP. Every part of the IEP should tie back to the PLAAFP section. It’s the foundation upon which goals, services, accommodations, and modifications are built.

Common Mistakes in Writing PLAAFP Statements

A major pitfall is writing “no concerns” without supporting data. Detailed, data-backed descriptions of student performance are essential for a meaningful PLAAFP statement.

Breaking Down the PLAAFP Sections

1. Health

   - Include vision and hearing results, medications, attendance records, diagnoses, and seizure activity.

   - Collaborate with the school nurse.

   - Example: “Benny has passed his vision and hearing screenings, does not take any medications at home or school, and attends school regularly.”

2. Motor

   - Input from OT, PT, and mobility services.

   - Describe participation in physical activities and handwriting skills.

   - Example: “Benny participates fully in recess and PE, plays soccer, and has legible handwriting.”

3. Social and Emotional

   - List strengths and challenges, including behavior rating scales and their impact on education.

   - Example: “Benny demonstrates appropriate behavior in all settings, follows the school discipline plan, and is respectful to peers and teachers.”

4. General Intelligence

   - Summarize input from the school psychologist, focusing on strengths, weaknesses, and their impact on learning.

5. Reading and Written Language

   - Organize data with headings and summaries, including current achievement testing results.

   - Example: Use a survey-level assessment to drill down exact skills.

6. Communication

   - Input from the speech and language pathologist, ensuring accurate and up-to-date data.

   - Example: “Benny communicates his needs and wants appropriately in all settings.”

7. Functional Living Skills

   - Describe the child’s abilities in self-care tasks.

   - Example: “Benny independently feeds and dresses himself but needs help tying his shoes.”

Ensuring Comprehensive PLAAFP Statements

Input from all stakeholders—parents, students, teachers, nurse, counselor—is crucial. Include student input through surveys or interviews. Align PLAAFP with goals, services, and accommodations.

Best Practices for Writing PLAAFP Statements

- Write as if you’re writing about your own child. Highlight strengths and areas for improvement.

- Avoid jargon and make sure the IEP is understandable for parents.

- Ensure each piece of information is included at least twice in the IEP for thoroughness.

You Got This!

Writing high-quality PLAAFP statements is essential for creating impactful IEPs. Using these tips and examples you can easily improve your IEP writing. 

If you’re really looking to step up your PLAAFP game - check out my resource, Write Better PLAAFP Statements for Your IEPs. This guide is packed with practical tips, examples, and everything you need to turn those lackluster PLAAFP sections into comprehensive, insightful narratives that truly reflect your students' needs and strengths. Trust me, this is one tool you won’t want to miss. 

What are your tips for writing PLAAFP statements? Share your strategies in the comments below or send me an email at [email protected]. You can also catch me on IG or Facebook and send me a DM.

Don't let the conversation end here.

Tune in to Special Education for Beginners where we dive deeper into topics that matter to you, sharing stories and insights that inspire.

Eager to expand your toolkit? Check out these episodes today:

Episode Episode 173: Effective Progress Monitoring Methods and Strategies
Episode 142: Save Time Writing IEPs with Artificial Intelligence