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Interest-based technical assistance (IBTA) is linking the needs of the student with educational strategies in the context
of rights and responsibilities under IDEA and Section 504. IBTA explores new ways of thinking about the team meeting process
by identifying the unique needs of the child, exploring pertinent facts and interests, developing educational strategies,
and ending with creative collaboration based on informed consent.
The value if IBTA is that it...
Saves time
Reduces emotional costs
Has the potential to reduce financial costs
Establishes a new level of trust and respect
Asks previously unanswered questions
Deescalates frustration and anxiety
Facilitates the exchange of vital information from informal and formal assessments and evaluations
Focuses on the unique needs of the student
Supports informed decision-making
Encourages creative collaboration
Provides a neutral evaluation of the current situation
Deals with the interests and positions of the team members
Is fair, impartial, and effective
Creates understanding of the process and the unique needs of the child
IBTA involves...
Active listening
Disclosure discussions
Neutralizing strong emotions
Systems change to prevent recurrence of the problem(s)
Bringing the right support people to the table
Identifying reasonable expectations
Evaluating obstacles and attitudes to creative collaboration
In IBTA, interests relate to the issues to be decided or the decision to be made.
© Claudia Lowe, J.D. 2004 all rights reserved
Claudia Lowe, J.D., SENC
Special Educational Needs Consultant
Doctor of Jurisprudence
Parent Mentor and Support
Conflict Coach
Special Educational Needs Consultant
counsels students and their families on educational strategies
and provisions for an appropriate IEP or 504 plan based on the student's unique needs, strengths,
abilities, and talents.
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