You may have encountered the term ARD previously if your child has special needs. But what does ARD in Special Education entail, and why is it so crucial? The ARD process—Admission, Review, and Dismissal—determines how schools will help kids with disabilities. As part of the ARD conference, parents, educators, and other professionals collaborate to create an individualized education program for your kid (IEP). It’s a chance to ensure that your child receives the support they require to succeed in school and set future objectives. This blog will go in-depth on what happens at ARD meetings and why it’s crucial that you participate in the discussion.
What is Special Education ARD?
“Admission, Review, and Dismissal” (ARD) in special education refers to the procedure used to determine, review, and potentially change a student’s eligibility for special education services in the United States. A team of educators and parents participate in this process by talking about the student’s requirements, creating an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), and deciding where to place the student and what services to provide. If you’re interested in how these educators contribute to the process, you can learn more about the role of a special education teacher.
Types of ARD Meetings
There are various ARD meetings in special education, each with a distinct goal and focus. The following are some of the most typical ARD meeting formats:
- Initial ARD Meeting: The first ARD meeting that occurs after a student is determined to require special education services is known as the initial ARD meeting. At this meeting, the team decides whether the student qualifies for special education services, creates their first Individualized Education Plan (IEP), and selects the student’s placement.
- Annual ARD Meeting: The student’s IEP and academic achievement are reviewed annually. The team evaluates the student’s progress, modifies their IEP as required, and sets goals for the following year during this meeting.
- Reevaluation ARD Meeting: The purpose of the Reevaluation ARD Meeting is to ascertain if the student still needs special education services. The team reviews the student’s progress, evaluates their current requirements, and determines whether any IEP revisions are required during this conference.
- An emergency ARD Meeting is called when the student’s requirements or circumstances change. For instance, an emergency ARD meeting might be held if the student’s academic or behavioral performance noticeably declines. At this point, the IEP would be reviewed to see if any modifications are required.
- Graduation ARD Meeting: This is the last ARD meeting a student attends before leaving the special education system and entering adulthood. The team discusses the student’s progress, establishes future objectives, and makes any decisions regarding any additional assistance or services the student might require following graduation during this meeting.
These are a few of the ARD meeting formats that are used most frequently in special education. To actively participate in the ARD process and guarantee that your child’s unique demands are getting fulfilled, it’s critical to comprehend the goal and focal point of each meeting. If you’re wondering about your rights in these processes, you might find the due process for special education informative.
For more in-depth information about Special Education, consider looking at The Council for Exceptional Children for various resources. The Understood website is another great resource for parents seeking support for their kids with special needs.
The Role of the Parent in an ARD Meeting
The ARD (Admission, Review, and Dismissal) meeting in special education is extremely important to parents. They are important team members whose opinions are crucial when deciding their child’s educational options. The following are some significant ways parents can get involved in the ARD process:
- Parents should evaluate their child’s current Individualized Education Plan (IEP) and any new data regarding their child’s academic or behavioral performance before the ARD meeting. Additionally, they have to note any worries or inquiries they have.
- Active Participation: During the ARD meeting, parents should actively participate in the discussion and offer suggestions regarding their child’s strengths, weaknesses, and educational requirements. They can voice their thoughts on the suggested objectives and services, ask questions, and offer further details.
- Collaboration: The team collaborates during the ARD meeting to create a successful strategy for the student. By offering their viewpoint and collaborating with educators to find solutions and techniques that will promote their child’s achievement, parents may contribute to this process.
- Parents are the student’s main advocates. Therefore, they must ensure all of their child’s requirements are being addressed. They can request modifications if the suggested IEP does not meet their child’s needs.
- Following Up: To make sure they understand the revised IEP, parents should review it after the ARD meeting.
IEP vs. ARD in Special Education
An ARD is a procedure used to create and review the student’s special education program, whereas an IEP is a document that describes it. Academic goals within an IEP don’t have to be standards-based. Both are significant steps in the special education process that support kids with disabilities and ensure they get the required materials and support to succeed.
About Us:
Jennifer Hanson is a dedicated and seasoned writer specializing in the field of special education. With a passion for advocating for the rights and needs of children with diverse learning abilities, Jennifer uses her pen to educate, inspire, and empower both educators and parents alike.