What type of documentation does a portfolio assessment primarily provide to an IEP team?

A portfolio assessment primarily provides documentation of a student's strengths and evidence of progress that has occurred over time. This type of assessment involves collecting various samples of a student's work, projects, and other relevant materials that showcase learning and development in different areas. By focusing on both the strengths and the progress made, the portfolio paints a comprehensive picture of the student’s abilities and achievements. This information is invaluable to the IEP team as it helps to inform decisions regarding goals, accommodations, and instructional strategies tailored to the student's unique needs.

This emphasis on strengths and progress is crucial, as it allows the team to recognize not just what areas a student may struggle in, but also how they have advanced and what skills they have mastered. It fosters a more holistic understanding of the student, ensuring that the supports provided in the IEP are grounded in actual demonstrated abilities and learning journeys.