The purpose of this qualitative study is to examine the effects of standards-based Individualized Education Programs (SB IEPs) on student achievement. Educators are required to develop IEPs for students with educational disabilities. The purpose of an IEP is to outline the goals and services to be provided to the student in order for the student to progress in the general education curriculum. This study examined the effect of aligning IEPs with grade-level curriculum standards and potential outcomes for students. The researcher reviewed and analyzed the feedback of elementary-level special educators in a large, rural district in the state of Missouri during a district-wide implementation of SB IEP development over the 2017-2018 school year. The participants responded to a questionnaire sent to them electronically through Google Forms by the Executive Director of Special Services at the end of the 2017-2018 school year after having participated in multiple professional development opportunities on SB IEPs and developing multiple SB IEPS for students. The perceptions of the special education staff were captured through open-ended questions and were analyzed for themes. The results indicated that special educators have an overall positive perception of SB IEPs and their effect on student achievement. Along with the positive outcomes shared by the participants, cautionary points were made. The findings of the study support the further development and implementation of SB IEPs and potential expansion to the secondary level. The overall takeaway from this study is that in order for an IEP to be comprehensive and effective for students, it must align with grade-level standards and maintain its focus on the individual needs of each student. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]