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Host: "Hello, everyone! Welcome to our explainer on manifestation determination meetings. These meetings are an important part of the special education process when it comes to student discipline,  behavioral interventions, and support at school. Let's break down what they involve and what you can expect."

Host: "A manifestation determination meeting is a meeting held to decide whether a student's behavior is directly linked to their disability or if it is a failure of the school to follow the student’s IEP. This is crucial in determining appropriate disciplinary actions and ensuring fair treatment under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act or IDEA."

Host: "This meeting is typically scheduled if your child has been recommended for suspension or expulsion that exceeds 10 school days, consecutive or cumulative, or if there's a pattern of behavior that warrants such action. Its purpose is to protect the rights of students with disabilities and ensure that their educational needs are met."

Host: "The meeting will include you, as the parent or guardian, special education teachers, school administrators, and any other relevant specialists. Together, the team will review your child's IEP, behavior records, and other pertinent information to determine if the behavior in question was a manifestation of their disability or a result of the school not following the student’s IEP."

Host: "The meeting will include you, as the parent or guardian, special education teachers, school administrators, and any other relevant specialists. Together, the team will review your child's IEP, behavior records, and other pertinent information to determine if the behavior in question was a manifestation of their disability or a result of the school not following the student’s IEP."

Host: "As a parent or guardian, you have the right to be involved in all decisions regarding your child's education and disciplinary actions. You have the right to receive notice of the meeting, access to your child's educational records, and the opportunity to present information and participate in the discussion. If the behavior is found to be a manifestation of the disability, the school must conduct or review a Functional Behavioral Assessment, or FBA, and Behavioral Plan, review the current IEP, and look at or adjust the child’s current programming at school."

Host: "If you have any questions before, during, or after the meeting, don't hesitate to ask. The process of a manifestation determination meeting may seem confusing/overwhelming if it is new for you. You can contact the school's special education coordinator or your child's IEP team for clarification. They are there to support you and ensure you fully understand the process and decisions being made."

Host: "Manifestation determination meetings are a key part of protecting the rights of students with disabilities and ensuring they receive appropriate support following a suspension or expulsion. By staying informed and involved, you're helping to ensure your child's educational and emotional well-being. Thank you for being an active participant in your child's educational journey!"

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