Discipline

There are a variety of laws that have been designed to ensure equitable access to education for students identified with special needs. These laws are not merely intended to promote the modification of instructional styles and curriculum, but also the laws ensure students are not exclude from were not receiving an appropriate education. To this extent, disciplinary actions and ensuring students are not inappropriately disciplined or excluded due to actions related to a disability is highly important.

If a student is recommended for expulsion, or to a behavior program the multidisciplinary team must convene and determine if the behavior in question was a manifestation of the student’s disability. This process is frequently referred to as a Manifestation Determination meeting.

There are two sets of paperwork that must be completed with the Manifestation Determination. The first is the Manifestation Determination, which is completed by the MDT as part of an IEP. The second is the Compliance Review, which is completed by the SEIF or TOR.

The following presentation is provided as a tutorial on writing and conducting the Manifestation Determination.