Who Can Call an ARD Meeting in Texas?
A Texas Administrative Review Decision (ARD) meeting is a formal process where parents, school officials, and sometimes other professionals discuss a student's Individualized Education Program (IEP). The IEP outlines the student's educational goals and the services they need to achieve those goals.
Who Can Call an ARD Meeting?
Generally, there are three main parties who can initiate an ARD meeting:
The Parents: Parents have the right to request an ARD meeting at any time to discuss their child's IEP. This could be to review the current IEP, propose changes, or address concerns.
The School District: The school district can also call an ARD meeting to discuss changes to the IEP. This might happen if the student's performance is not meeting expectations, if new information about the student's needs becomes available, or if the district wants to propose changes to the services being provided.
The Student (If of Age): In Texas, students who are 18 years old or older have the right to participate in ARD meetings and can even request an ARD meeting themselves.
When Should an ARD Meeting Be Called?
There are several situations where an ARD meeting might be appropriate:
- To Review and Update the IEP: ARD meetings should be held annually to review the student's progress and update the IEP as needed.
- To Address Concerns: If parents or the school district have concerns about the student's educational progress or the services being provided, an ARD meeting can be a forum to discuss those concerns and find solutions.
- To Propose Changes: If either the parents or the school district want to propose changes to the IEP, an ARD meeting is the appropriate venue to discuss and implement those changes.
- To Discuss Transition Planning: As students approach high school graduation, ARD meetings should focus on transition planning to help them prepare for their next steps, whether it's college, vocational training, or employment.
How to Request an ARD Meeting
If you want to request an ARD meeting, you should contact your child's school principal or special education coordinator. They will provide you with the necessary forms and information. You may also want to consult with your child's case manager or other professionals who are involved in your child's education.
Important Note: It's important to remember that ARD meetings are formal proceedings. It's a good idea to come prepared with questions, concerns, and any relevant documentation. You may also want to consider bringing an advocate or attorney to represent your interests.
Related FAQs
How to Prepare for an ARD Meeting
Preparing for an ARD meeting involves several steps:
- Review your child's IEP thoroughly.
- Identify any areas of concern or areas where you would like to see changes.
- Gather any relevant documentation, such as medical reports, evaluations, or progress reports.
- Consider bringing an advocate or attorney to represent your interests.
- Practice communicating your concerns and questions clearly and effectively.
How to Advocate for Your Child at an ARD Meeting
Advocating for your child at an ARD meeting means actively participating in the process and ensuring that your child's needs are being met. Here are some tips:
- Be prepared to ask questions and express your concerns.
- Be assertive but respectful.
- Listen carefully to what others are saying.
- Take notes during the meeting.
- Follow up after the meeting to ensure that the agreed-upon changes are implemented.
How to Understand the IEP
The IEP is a complex document that can be difficult to understand. Here are some tips for understanding your child's IEP:
- Read the IEP carefully and take notes.
- Ask questions if you don't understand something.
- Talk to your child's teachers and other professionals about the IEP.
- Use the IEP as a tool to monitor your child's progress and advocate for their needs.
How to Resolve IEP Disputes
If you're unable to resolve IEP disputes through the ARD process, you may have other options, such as mediation or filing a due process complaint with the state.
How to Find Resources and Support
There are many resources and support groups available to help parents of children with disabilities. Here are some places to start:
- The National Parent Center on Disability Rights (NPCDR):
https://heller.brandeis.edu/parents-with-disabilities/ - The Council for Exceptional Children (CEC):
https://exceptionalchildren.org/ - Your state's department of education's special education division
I hope this information is helpful! Please feel free to ask if you have any other questions.