Getting prepared for your next ARD meeting can be challenging.
Here are some Frequently Asked Questions pertaining to IEPs and ARDs that I have received the last couple of weeks.
Can parents request information of teachers’ and paraprofessionals’ qualifications?
Changes per the TEA beginning with the 2016-2017 school year – the schools and teachers only need to meet the state requirements for certification. Paraprofessionals must still meet the highly qualified requirements under No Child Left Behind for the 2016-2017 school year.
Once at the ARD meeting, can I postpone?
You can request more time or disagree and ask to recess and reconvene within ten school days. Review and if you agree, sign the IEP by the deadline. You can ask for a Facilitated IEP. If both parents and school agree, a trained person assists in getting people to reach an agreement. If the ARD committee cannot reach a mutual agreement, parents are allowed to write your own statement of disagreement.
What if I do not agree to the content of the Evaluation or Reevaluation Report?
Request the evaluation report in advance of the ARD. Request clarification if the evaluation report is vague. If parents do not agree with the results of the school’s evaluation or reevaluation, parents may request an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE). The school has the option of (1) paying for the IEE or (2) requesting a due process hearing to prove the appropriateness of the evaluation.
How do we request a paraprofessional?
Structure your request for a dedicated paraprofessional by answering Who, When and Why for your child’s needs.
Who – Paraprofessionals in Texas public schools this school year must meet the federal definition. Do not allow “aide” to be used as a substitute for the “paraprofessional” in the IEP. When – Throughout the entire school day, specific classes or times of day, or only transitions. Why – Behavior management, activities of daily living, social skills, instructional support.
Feel free to send me more Special Education questions at leona@filislaw.com.