Update on Required State Forms and Additional Web-Based Guidance

INFORMATIONAL LETTER NO: 110
Policy Code: IHBA/CH

TO: Superintendents, Special Education Directors, CDS Regional Site Directors

FROM: Susan A. Gendron, Commissioner

DATE: June 16, 2008

RE: Update on Required State Forms and Additional Web-Based Guidance

The Department has made a few minor adjustments to the required State Forms after reviewing comments from constituents. The newest versions of the forms can be accessed electronically at: http://www.maine.gov/education/forms/specservices.htm . Please reference the date at the bottom of each form for the most current revision. Samples of completed forms with the newest changes will be added to the web by July 30, 2008.

Individualized Education Program (IEP)
Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP)
Written Agreement for IEP Amendments ( This form has been deleted and necessary language added to Written Notice)
Documentation for Excusal of IEP Team Member Whose Curriculum Area Is Being Discussed
Documentation of Agreement for Non-Attendance of IEP Team Member Whose Curriculum Area Is Not Being Discussed
Written Notice
Summary of Performance
Severity Rating Scales/Guidelines for Speech/Language Communications Services
Speech/Language Eligibility Criteria
Teacher Input/Articulation, Language and Voice (Optional, helpful for the classroom observation)
Learning Disability Evaluation Form

The forms have been developed in keeping with the objective of paperwork reduction and in order to ensure that the State does not exceed the minimum federal requirements. Utilization of State forms will also ensure compliance with the federal regulatory requirements and consistent documentation throughout the State. These are standardized documents and must be used as they are and cannot be modified per individual choice.

Revised questions and answers and newly-added questions and answers to the “Maine Department of Education Response to Questions from SAU’s and Parents Regarding the Maine Unified Special Education Regulations” have also been added to the web. The date on this document as well as directions on how to determine the newly added information can be accessed at:
http://mainegov-images.informe.org/education/speced/documents/muserqanda.pdf

Contact Jaci Holmes at 624-6669 or via email at jaci.holmes@maine.gov for clarification on the speech forms and, Susan Parks at 624-6650 or via email at Susan.Parks@maine.gov for all other form related questions.