Understanding IEP Present Levels

Every IEP, or Individualized Education Program, begins with one essential component: the Present Levels of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance, often called PLAAFP or simply "present levels." This foundational statement guides goal-setting, services, and supports, so it is worth getting it right.

What’s the Present Levels Statement All About?

Under IDEA, every IEP must include a description of the student's current academic achievement and functional performance, along with an explanation of how the disability affects the student's involvement and progress in the general education curriculum. For preschoolers, the focus is on participation in appropriate preschool activities.

Although IDEA does not formally define academic achievement or functional performance, the Department of Education provides clarification. Academic achievement includes performance in core areas such as reading, writing, math, science, and history, depending on each child's circumstances. Functional performance refers to everyday activities and routines, such as dressing, socializing, behavior, and mobility. These skills vary widely from child to child, as do the ways of assessing them.

At its core, the Present Levels statement describes where the child is now and how their disability affects their ability to access education and participate in school life.

Why Present Levels Matter

The Present Levels statement sets the stage for every other part of the IEP. It provides the baseline for designing measurable annual goals. It helps determine the services, supports, and accommodations a child needs. It also ensures that the IEP reflects the child’s unique strengths, needs, and areas where they may need extra support.

Where Does the Information Come From?

To build an accurate and comprehensive statement, IEP teams use evaluation results, whether from initial eligibility evaluations or more recent assessments. They also draw from observations and assessments conducted during the school year, including progress monitoring and classroom input. Just as importantly, parents and caregivers contribute valuable insights about how the child performs across settings and in daily life. Together, these sources of information create a full picture of the student’s academic and functional profile.

Present Levels are more than a required section of an IEP. They are the starting point for building a meaningful and effective plan that supports a student’s growth. When teams take time to gather accurate information, include parent perspectives, and clearly describe both strengths and needs, the IEP is set on a strong foundation for success.