Which statement best describes present levels of performance in an IEP?

Which statement best describes present levels of performance in an IEP?

• A. A summary of school policies.
• B. A statement documenting the student current abilities and needs.
• C. A checklist of behavior management strategies.
• D. A list of classroom rules.

Answer: (B)

Present levels of performance describe the student’s current level of functioning, outlining what they can do now, their strengths, and the areas that need support. This baseline draws from current data across academic and functional skills—test results, work samples, progress notes, and observations—to show how the student performs in the classroom and everyday activities. By clearly stating where the student stands, it sets a practical starting point for writing measurable annual goals, determining needed services and accommodations, and tracking progress over time. That’s why this option is the best choice: it directly documents the student’s present abilities and needs, which is exactly what the present levels are meant to convey. It is not a summary of school policies, a checklist of behavior management strategies, or a list of classroom rules.

Present levels of performance describe the student’s current level of functioning, outlining what they can do now, their strengths, and the areas that need support. This baseline draws from current data across academic and functional skills—test results, work samples, progress notes, and observations—to show how the student performs in the classroom and everyday activities. By clearly stating where the student stands, it sets a practical starting point for writing measurable annual goals, determining needed services and accommodations, and tracking progress over time.

That’s why this option is the best choice: it directly documents the student’s present abilities and needs, which is exactly what the present levels are meant to convey. It is not a summary of school policies, a checklist of behavior management strategies, or a list of classroom rules.