Post by @youreducationadvo

A Behavior Intervention Plan, or BIP, is NOT just for aggression. That is one of the biggest misconceptions I hear as an educational advocate. A BIP can address many behaviors that interfere with a student’s learning or the learning of others, including: • Elopement or leaving the assigned area • Work refusal or task avoidance • Off task behavior • Shutdowns • Verbal aggression • Physical aggression • Self injurious behavior • Property destruction • Disruptive behavior • Excessive calling out • Difficulty with transitions • Escape behaviors • Unsafe behaviors • Chronic nonparticipation • Difficulty appropriately self advocating or communicating needs • Other behaviors that interfere with the student’s ability to access their education And here is the important part: A BIP should not simply be a list of consequences for unwanted behavior. Behavior serves a function, and sometimes what adults label as “behavior” is actually a student attempting to communicate, regulate, escape an overwhelming situation, or advocate for a need without yet having an effective replacement skill. When behavior impedes a student’s learning or that of others, IDEA requires the IEP team to consider positive behavioral interventions and supports and other strategies to address that behavior. 34 C.F.R. § 300.324(a)(2)(i). A meaningful BIP should identify what is happening and why, focus on prevention, teach replacement skills, including appropriate self advocacy when needed, identify the supports adults will provide, and establish consistent responses. The goal isn’t simply compliance. The goal is understanding the function of the behavior and teaching the student a safer, more effective way to communicate and get their needs met. *Disclosure: All name, schools, and identifying details have been removed or altered to protect privacy. This content was created in a two-party consent state where all parties agreed and recorded the meeting. The purpose of this post is educational and advocacy-based. #fape #ieprights #504plan #advocate #specialeducation