What is it?

An ARD meeting, also known as an Admission, Review, and Dismissal meeting, is a crucial part of the special education process for students in Texas. This meeting brings together key members of the educational team, including parents, teachers, school administrators, and special education staff, to make important decisions regarding a student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP). Here’s an explanation of what an ARD meeting entails:

  1. Admission: The “Admission” component of the ARD meeting refers to the initial determination of a student’s eligibility for special education services. If a student is suspected of having a disability that impacts their educational performance, an ARD meeting is convened to review assessment data, discuss the student’s needs, and determine whether they qualify for special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) criteria.
  2. Review: The “Review” component of the ARD meeting involves a review of the student’s current educational program, progress, and needs. The ARD committee reviews assessment results, academic and behavioral data, input from parents and teachers, and any other relevant information to assess the student’s present levels of performance and determine the appropriateness of their educational program.
  3. Dismissal or Continued Eligibility: Depending on the outcome of the review, the ARD committee may make decisions regarding the student’s continued eligibility for special education services. If the student no longer meets the criteria for special education eligibility or if their needs can be adequately addressed through general education supports and interventions, the committee may recommend dismissal from special education services. Alternatively, if the student continues to require special education services, the committee will determine the appropriate goals, services, and supports to be included in their Individualized Education Program (IEP).
  4. Development of the IEP: If the student is found eligible for special education services or if changes are needed to their existing IEP, the ARD committee collaboratively develops or revises the student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) during the meeting. The IEP outlines the student’s present levels of performance, annual goals, specialized instruction, related services, accommodations, and other supports necessary to address their unique educational needs.
  5. Parental Involvement: Parents play a crucial role in the ARD process and are considered key members of the ARD committee. They have the right to participate in all aspects of the meeting, provide input on their child’s educational needs and preferences, and collaborate with the school to develop an appropriate educational plan for their child.
  6. Documentation and Decision-Making: The decisions made during the ARD meeting are documented in the student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) or other official ARD paperwork. These documents outline the student’s educational goals, services, and supports, as well as any accommodations or modifications necessary to support their learning and development.

Overall, the ARD meeting is a collaborative process that aims to ensure that students with disabilities receive the support and services they need to access a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) and make progress in the general education curriculum. It provides an opportunity for parents and educators to work together to address the unique needs of each student and promote their academic and developmental success.