How are Present Levels of Performance used in an IEP?

• A. They establish current functioning, inform goal development, and guide service decisions.
• B. They are primarily used to determine eligibility.
• C. They summarize students' grades from previous year.
• D. They inform school budget decisions only.

Answer: (A)

Present levels of performance describe where the student currently functions across academic and related areas, providing a baseline for planning. This information is used to write measurable annual goals and to determine the services, supports, accommodations, and modifications the student needs. By grounding goal development and service decisions in the student's current functioning, the IEP can target specific needs and track progress over the year. These levels aren’t primarily used to determine eligibility, nor are they simply a summary of grades or a tool for budgeting.