Behavior Supports and BIPs in Vermont
How do behavior supports work in a Vermont IEP?
Vermont requires that when a student's behavior impedes learning, the IEP team must consider positive behavioral interventions, supports, and strategies consistent with 34 CFR 300.324(a)(2)(i) and VT AOE Rule 2360.7.1. Vermont promotes Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) statewide through its MTSS framework. When a student with a disability has behavior that impedes learning, the IEP team must consider a functional behavioral assessment (FBA) and develop a behavioral intervention plan (BIP). Vermont's restraint and seclusion statute at 16 V.S.A. § 1161a and Rule 4500 place additional obligations on schools when restrictive interventions are used. Vermont's AOE has developed guidance on trauma-informed practices and PBIS as preferred supports. The BIP must be reviewed when behaviors escalate or after any manifestation determination review.
What Vermont Requires
When a student's behavior impedes learning, the IEP team must consider positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS), including FBA and BIP (VT AOE Rule 2360.7.1; 34 CFR 300.324(a)(2)(i)).
Vermont promotes statewide PBIS implementation through its MTSS framework; all schools are encouraged to implement tier 1-3 supports before resorting to restrictive interventions (VT AOE MTSS Guidance).
When an FBA has been conducted, the IEP team must develop and implement a BIP and review it at least annually as part of the IEP process (VT AOE Rule 2360.7.1).
The BIP must include positive behavioral strategies to address the function of the behavior, not merely suppress it (VT AOE Rule 2360.7.1; 34 CFR 300.324(a)(2)).
After any use of restraint or seclusion documented under 16 V.S.A. § 1161a and Rule 4500, the IEP team should convene to review and revise the BIP as appropriate.
Vermont's trauma-informed care principles influence behavior support practices; IEP teams should consider the role of trauma in behavioral presentations (VT AOE Guidance).
Key Timelines
FBA and BIP must be developed when a student's behavior impedes learning and positive interventions are warranted (VT AOE Rule 2360.7.1).
BIP must be reviewed at least annually at the IEP meeting or sooner if behavioral concerns escalate (VT AOE Rule 2360.7.2).
A manifestation determination review (MDR) must be completed within 10 school days of any decision to change placement for disciplinary reasons (34 CFR 300.530(e)).
When a manifestation is found, an FBA must be conducted or reviewed immediately (34 CFR 300.530(f)(1)).