Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Leader Services has introduced IEPWriter.com for Pennsylvania and Ohio. Below are the answers to some frequently asked questions about the software.

How does a web-based IEP Writer work?

In a web-based application, such as IEPWriter.com, the software needed to produce the IEP and the student files are stored on a secure web server. This centralizes the information and allows for production of numerous management reports. It also allows users with the proper user ID and password to access their students from any PC or Macintosh computer connected to the Internet and outfitted with the appropriate web browser.

Users enter their unique user ID and password information; once logged in, they then see a list of only their students. Next, they begin to fill in the necessary information to complete an IEP. Many of the data fields will display pre-defined choices from which the user can pick; this reduces errors and shortens input time. Key items, such as goals & objectives, are completely user-definable and can be stored for reuse at a later time on a different student's IEP.

A completed IEP is generated as a PDF (Portable Document Format) file. This allows users to save and print the IEP on their PC or Macintosh. The final appearance of the IEP will follow the state-approved format in every detail.

What other benefits does a web-based IEP Writer offer?

Through the use of a student and teacher assignment system, multiple teachers can be assigned to a single student and each can work on their piece of the IEP independently of each other. This eliminates the passing around of paper or computer files.

When a student is reassigned to a different teacher, the student's complete file can be easily reassigned as well, providing the new teacher with pertinent historical IEP information.

Management reports that deal with such topics as, "How many students are receiving a service (such as speech)?" or "Whose IEPs are due by the end of May?" can be quickly produced for school administrators. This helps to keep you in compliance with state and federal guidelines.

Can I install IEPWriter on my school's web server?

Leader Services is offering this solution as an ASP (Application Service Provider) using its secure web infrastructure. Leader Services hosts the software application on its web and database servers and provides all necessary supporting hardware and third-party software to allow your users to access the system via your school or personal computer with requisite Internet access and physical capacity. Leader Services performs daily backups (except weekends and holidays) and manages most of the tasks usually associated with administering a system. All hardware and data-communication upgrades at the web server site are the responsibility of Leader Services.

Because of the complex integration of the IEP application, its component programs, ongoing operating system upgrades, maintenance of state and federal mandated changes to forms and letters within the IEP, and continuous quality improvement issues, the only pragmatic means to accomplish these is to centralize the system at a single location. Therefore, school district hosting is not available at this time.

Are my school district's files mixed with those of other districts?

No, each school district has it own storage space and files are segregated based on your school district. Other districts can not access or view your files nor can you access or view the files of another district.

What are the technical specifications for installing the web-based IEP Writer?

Please see the system requirements page.

How are upgrades handled?

Leader Services is proud to be the only supplier of state-specific IEP writer software that has consistently kept pace with changes made by the Department of Education. This practice will continue with the web-based IEPWriter and is included with your initial and subsequent years' fees.

Leader Services will upgrade IEPWriter software as needed. All of your users will automatically and transparently be upgraded at once.

What do I do if I need help?

Users of IEPWriter have several Help options. IEPWriter contains extensive on-screen help and hints. Our Help Desk staff is available weekdays from 8 AM to 6 PM Eastern Time to answer your questions. They are accessible through a toll-free number. The state-annotated versions of many documents are included on IEPWriter.com, and we have included links to state academic standards where available. You can also contact us via email.