ARD Meeting Guide: Dallas ISD

Dallas ISD Resources: District Home • ARD Guide • Evaluations (FIE) • Dyslexia/504 • Dispute Resolution

Hi, I'm a Texas parent of a 2e child. When I watched the school system fail her, I realized how broken the process is. I built this resource to help parents like you get the support your child deserves. You are not alone.

⚡ Quick Answer

What is an ARD meeting in Texas?
An ARD (Admission, Review, and Dismissal) meeting is the IEP meeting required by Texas law where the school and parents together review a child's special education eligibility and services. Parents must receive written notice at least 5 calendar days before the meeting and may request a 10-day recess at any time to seek advice.

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ARD Meetings in Dallas ISD: A Parent's Guide to Advocating for Your Child

As a parent of a child with special needs in Dallas ISD, you are a critical member of the Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) committee. The ARD committee is responsible for developing and implementing your child's Individualized Education Program (IEP). Understanding your rights and responsibilities within the ARD process is key to ensuring your child receives the free and appropriate public education (FAPE) they are entitled to under the law. This guide will empower you to actively participate in ARD meetings and advocate effectively for your child's needs.

What Is an ARD Meeting?

An ARD meeting is a collaborative process involving parents, educators, and other relevant professionals to make decisions about a student's special education services. The core purpose of the ARD committee is to develop, review, and revise a student's IEP. The IEP is a legally binding document that outlines the student's educational goals, accommodations, modifications, and related services. The ARD committee must include specific members, as outlined in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the Texas Education Code (TEC). These mandatory members include: * **Parent(s):** You, the parent(s) or legal guardian(s), are central to the ARD process. Your input and insights into your child's strengths, needs, and learning style are invaluable. * **At least one regular education teacher:** If the child is, or may be, participating in the regular education environment, at least one of the child's regular education teachers must be present. * **At least one special education teacher or special education provider:** This person is knowledgeable about special education and qualified to provide or supervise the provision of special education. * **A representative of the Local Education Agency (LEA):** This individual is qualified to provide or supervise the provision of specially designed instruction to meet the unique needs of children with disabilities; is knowledgeable about the general education curriculum; and is knowledgeable about the availability of resources of the LEA. In Dallas ISD, this is typically an administrator or special education coordinator. * **An individual who can interpret the instructional implications of evaluation results:** This person may be a member of the team described above. They must be qualified to explain the results of evaluations and how they relate to the student's instruction. * **The student (when appropriate):** Beginning no later than the student's 16th birthday (and earlier if appropriate), the student must be invited to the ARD meeting if the purpose of the meeting will be the consideration of the postsecondary goals for the student and the transition services needed to assist the student in reaching those goals. * **Other individuals who have knowledge or special expertise regarding the child:** You, as the parent, have the right to invite anyone you believe can contribute valuable information to the ARD process, such as therapists, physicians, or advocates. The school can also invite individuals with expertise. The ARD committee is responsible for making decisions related to: * **Eligibility for special education services:** Determining if the student meets the criteria for a specific disability category under IDEA. * **Present Levels of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance (PLAAFP):** Describing the student's current academic and functional skills. * **Measurable annual goals:** Developing specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals for the student. * **Special education and related services:** Determining the appropriate services, such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, counseling, or specialized instruction, to support the student's progress. * **Accommodations and modifications:** Identifying necessary accommodations and modifications to the general education curriculum and assessments to enable the student to access and participate in learning. * **Placement:** Determining the least restrictive environment (LRE) where the student can receive an appropriate education, with a preference for inclusion in the general education classroom to the maximum extent appropriate. * **Statewide Assessment:** Deciding how the student will participate in statewide assessments and, if necessary, justifying any exemptions from participation. * **Transition services:** Beginning no later than age 16, planning for the student's post-secondary goals, including education, employment, and independent living.

5-Day Notice Rule

You have the right to receive written notice of an ARD meeting at least five school days before the scheduled date, unless you agree to waive this requirement. This notice must include the purpose of the meeting, the date, time, and location of the meeting, and a list of individuals expected to attend. The notice should also inform you of your right to participate and bring anyone you feel is necessary to the meeting. The 5-day notice rule allows you adequate time to prepare for the meeting. Preparation includes: * Reviewing your child's records: Gather all relevant documents, including evaluations, progress reports, and previous IEPs. * Documenting your concerns: Write down your specific concerns and questions regarding your child's education. * Consulting with professionals: If you have concerns, consult with therapists, physicians, or advocates prior to the meeting. * Preparing your statements: Outline your goals for the meeting and what you want to see included in your child's IEP. If Dallas ISD fails to provide adequate notice, you have the right to request a postponement of the meeting. Insisting on proper notice ensures you have ample time to prepare and effectively advocate for your child.

What to Bring to an ARD Meeting

Coming prepared to an ARD meeting significantly increases your ability to advocate effectively for your child. Here's a list of essential items to bring: * **Your Child's Records:** This includes previous IEPs, evaluation reports (psychological, educational, speech, occupational therapy, etc.), progress reports, report cards, and any other relevant documentation from Dallas ISD or outside professionals. Having these documents readily available allows you to reference specific data points during the discussion. * **Your Own Data and Observations:** Keep a log of your observations about your child's learning, behavior, and any challenges they face. Document specific examples of difficulties they encounter at home or in the community that might impact their educational needs. This first-hand information is invaluable to the ARD committee. * **A List of Your Child's Strengths:** It's easy to focus on challenges, but highlighting your child's strengths provides a balanced perspective. These strengths can be leveraged to support their areas of need and build their self-esteem. * **Your Goals for Your Child:** Clearly articulate your goals for your child's academic, social, and emotional development. Having specific, measurable goals in mind helps guide the IEP development process. Consider both short-term and long-term goals. * **A List of Questions:** Prepare a list of questions you want to ask the ARD committee members. This ensures that all your concerns are addressed during the meeting. * **Notes from Professionals:** If you've consulted with therapists, physicians, or other professionals, bring their reports or written notes to share with the committee. Their expert opinions can provide valuable insights into your child's needs. * **A Friend, Advocate, or Support Person:** Having someone with you during the ARD meeting can provide emotional support, help you take notes, and offer a second perspective. Choose someone who understands your child's needs and can advocate alongside you. * **A Copy of the Texas Education Code and IDEA (or relevant sections):** Familiarize yourself with the relevant sections of the TEC and IDEA beforehand. Knowing your rights and the legal requirements for special education services empowers you to advocate effectively. * **A Positive Attitude:** While it's essential to be assertive, approaching the meeting with a positive and collaborative attitude can foster a more productive environment. Remember, the ARD committee is there to work with you to develop the best possible plan for your child.

The 10-Day Recess

According to the Texas Education Code (TEC §29.005), if the parent disagrees with the ARD committee's proposed IEP, the parent has the right to request a 10-day recess. This recess allows the parent time to consider the IEP, gather additional information, consult with professionals, and prepare for further discussion. During the 10-day recess, the school is required to implement the last agreed-upon IEP. If there is no previously agreed-upon IEP, the school must provide FAPE to the child as appropriate under the circumstances. You should utilize the 10-day recess to: * **Review the IEP thoroughly:** Carefully examine all sections of the IEP, including the PLAAFP, goals, services, accommodations, and placement. * **Consult with outside professionals:** Share the IEP with therapists, physicians, or advocates for their input. * **Gather additional information:** Conduct further research or seek additional evaluations to support your position. * **Prepare a written response:** Clearly outline your specific concerns and proposed revisions to the IEP. The 10-day recess is a valuable tool for parents who need time to carefully consider the ARD committee's decisions and ensure the IEP meets their child's needs. Do not hesitate to request this recess if you are not comfortable with the proposed IEP.

Disagreeing With the Team

It is perfectly acceptable, and often necessary, to disagree with the ARD committee. Remember, you are a vital member of the team, and your perspective is crucial. If you disagree with the committee's decisions, it's important to express your concerns clearly and respectfully. Here are steps to take when you disagree: 1. **Clearly state your disagreement:** Explicitly state that you disagree with a specific aspect of the IEP. Avoid vague statements and pinpoint the exact issue. 2. **Explain your reasoning:** Provide a clear and logical explanation for your disagreement, citing specific examples, data, or observations that support your position. Reference information from outside evaluations or professional opinions if applicable. 3. **Propose alternative solutions:** Instead of simply stating what you disagree with, offer alternative solutions or modifications to the IEP. This demonstrates that you are actively seeking a resolution. 4. **Document your concerns:** Ensure that your concerns are documented in the ARD meeting minutes. Request that the minutes accurately reflect your disagreement and the reasons for it. 5. **Utilize the 10-day recess (as discussed above):** Take advantage of this opportunity to gather more information and strengthen your position. If, after the 10-day recess, you still disagree with the IEP, you have several options: * **Mediation:** Request mediation through the Texas Education Agency (TEA). A neutral third party will facilitate communication between you and the school district to reach a mutually agreeable solution. * **Due Process Hearing:** File a request for a due process hearing with TEA. This is a formal legal proceeding where an impartial hearing officer will hear evidence and make a decision regarding the IEP.

Filing a State Complaint

If you believe Dallas ISD has violated the IDEA or TEC, you have the right to file a formal state complaint with TEA. A state complaint is a written statement alleging that the school district has failed to comply with special education laws and regulations. The complaint must: * Be in writing and signed. * State the specific violation of IDEA or TEC. * Include facts supporting the allegation. * Be filed within one year of the alleged violation. TEA will investigate the complaint and issue a written decision. If TEA finds that Dallas ISD has violated the law, they will order the district to take corrective action. This may include providing compensatory services to your child, revising policies and procedures, or providing training to staff. Filing a state complaint can be a complex process, so it is advisable to seek legal advice or assistance from a special education advocate. Advocating for your child with special needs can feel overwhelming, but by understanding your rights and actively participating in the ARD process, you can ensure that your child receives the appropriate education and support they deserve. Remember, you are your child's strongest advocate, and your voice matters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers every parent in Texas needs to know.

How much notice must a Texas school give before an ARD meeting? +

Texas law requires the district to provide written notice at least 5 calendar days before an ARD meeting. Parents can waive this notice in writing if they choose to meet sooner.

Can I bring someone to my child's ARD meeting? +

Yes. Under IDEA and Texas law, parents have the right to bring any individual with knowledge or special expertise regarding their child, including an advocate, educational consultant, or attorney.

What is a 10-day recess in an ARD meeting? +

A parent or the district may request a 10-day recess (pause) during an ARD meeting to gather more information, seek independent advice, or consult an advocate before final decisions are made.

What happens if I disagree with the ARD team's decision? +

You may refuse to sign the IEP, request a 10-day recess, file a State Complaint with the TEA, request Mediation, or request a Special Education Due Process Hearing. You do not lose your right to services during this process.

📍 Other Districts in Region 10 (TEA ESC)

Parents across the region share the same TEA oversight and ESC support. These districts follow the same timelines:

Frisco ISD Garland ISD Lewisville ISD Plano ISD Denton ISD

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