Writing Measurable Goals
An IEP goal must be specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). A vague goal like 'Johnny will improve reading skills' is unenforceable. A SMART goal: 'By the annual review date, Johnny will read a third-grade level passage at 90 words per minute with no more than 5 errors, as measured by DIBELS assessment, in 4 out of 5 trials.' This goal specifies the skill (oral reading fluency), the target level (90 WPM), the accuracy criterion (no more than 5 errors), the measurement tool (DIBELS), and the consistency standard (4 out of 5 trials). Parents should ensure every goal includes these elements—if a proposed goal is vague, ask: 'How will we know when this goal is met? What tool will measure it? What is the target number?'