ARD Meeting Guide: Katy ISD

Katy 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 Katy ISD: A Parent's Guide to Advocacy

Welcome to your comprehensive guide to navigating Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) meetings within Katy ISD. As a parent of a child with special needs, you are the most important member of the ARD committee. This guide will empower you with the knowledge and resources you need to effectively advocate for your child's educational needs. We will walk through the ARD process, your rights, and what to do if you disagree with the ARD committee's decisions.

What Is an ARD Meeting?

An ARD meeting, mandated by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and implemented in Texas through the Texas Education Code (TEC) Chapter 29, is a crucial forum for developing and reviewing your child's Individualized Education Program (IEP). This IEP outlines the specific supports and services your child will receive in order to access a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment (LRE). The ARD committee is composed of various individuals who contribute to your child's education. This typically includes: * **You, the parent:** Your input and perspective are paramount. You know your child best. * **Your child (when appropriate):** As your child gets older, their involvement in the ARD process becomes increasingly important. * **A representative of the school district:** This person must be qualified to provide or supervise the provision of specially designed instruction. * **Your child's special education teacher:** This teacher is responsible for implementing the IEP and providing specialized instruction. * **Your child's general education teacher (if applicable):** If your child participates in general education classes, their teacher will provide input on their performance and needs in that setting. * **An educational diagnostician or evaluation specialist:** This person is qualified to interpret evaluation results and make recommendations for instruction and services. * **Other individuals with knowledge or special expertise regarding your child:** This could include therapists (speech, occupational, physical), counselors, or other professionals who work with your child. You have the right to invite anyone you believe can contribute valuable information to the ARD committee. The ARD committee's primary responsibilities include: * **Determining eligibility for special education services:** Based on evaluation data, the committee decides if your child meets the criteria for a specific disability category under IDEA and TEC §29.003. * **Developing the IEP:** The IEP includes measurable annual goals, how progress will be measured, a statement of the special education and related services and supplementary aids and services to be provided, and a statement of any program modifications or supports for school personnel. * **Determining placement:** The ARD committee decides where your child will receive their education, striving for the least restrictive environment possible. This means educating your child with non-disabled peers to the maximum extent appropriate. * **Reviewing and revising the IEP:** The IEP must be reviewed and revised at least annually, or more frequently if needed, to ensure it continues to meet your child's needs.

The 5-Day Notice Rule

Texas Education Code §29.005(c) mandates that the school district provide you with written notice of the ARD meeting at least five school days before the scheduled meeting. This notice must include: * The purpose of the meeting. * The date, time, and location of the meeting. * A list of individuals who will be attending (to the extent known). * Your right to invite other individuals with knowledge or special expertise regarding your child. **Importance of the 5-Day Notice:** This notice period is crucial for you to prepare for the meeting. Use this time to: * Review your child's records, including evaluations, progress reports, and previous IEPs. * Gather your own information and documentation, such as observations, data, or reports from outside therapists. * Identify your concerns and goals for your child's education. * Consider inviting individuals who can support your advocacy efforts. * Contact the school to clarify any questions you have regarding the meeting or your child's needs. If you do not receive timely notice or the notice lacks sufficient information, you have the right to request a postponement of the meeting. Documentation of the late or inadequate notice can be helpful if future disagreements arise.

What to Bring to an ARD Meeting

Preparation is key to effective advocacy. Here's a list of items you should consider bringing to your ARD meeting: * **Your child's records:** This includes previous IEPs, evaluation reports, progress reports, report cards, and any other relevant documentation. * **Your own observations and data:** Keep a record of your child's strengths, weaknesses, challenges, and progress at home. This information can provide valuable insights for the ARD committee. * **Reports from outside therapists or specialists:** If your child receives services from therapists, doctors, or other professionals outside of school, bring their reports and recommendations to the meeting. * **A list of your concerns and goals:** Write down your specific concerns about your child's education and your goals for their academic, social, and emotional development. This will help you stay focused during the meeting. * **A list of questions:** Prepare a list of questions you want to ask the ARD committee. * **A support person:** Consider bringing a friend, family member, advocate, or attorney to provide emotional support and assist you in advocating for your child. Remember to notify the school in advance if you plan to bring someone. * **A notebook and pen:** Take notes during the meeting to document the discussions, decisions, and action items. * **Any assistive technology your child uses:** If your child uses assistive technology, bring it to the meeting to demonstrate its effectiveness and discuss its use in the classroom. * **Photos or videos of your child demonstrating skills or challenges:** Visual aids can be a powerful way to communicate your child's needs to the ARD committee. By bringing these items to the meeting, you will be well-prepared to participate actively and advocate effectively for your child's needs.

The 10-Day Recess

The "10-Day Recess" (TEC §29.005(f)) is a powerful tool available to parents when they disagree with the ARD committee's proposed IEP. If you disagree with the ARD committee's recommendations, you can request a 10-day recess to further consider the proposed IEP. This allows you time to: * Review the proposed IEP in detail. * Seek advice from outside professionals or advocates. * Gather additional information or documentation. * Prepare a written response outlining your concerns and proposed changes. **Important Considerations for Using the 10-Day Recess:** * **Request it immediately:** Request the recess at the conclusion of the ARD meeting, before signing the IEP. Document your request in writing. * **Use the time wisely:** Don't just let the 10 days pass. Actively use the time to gather information and develop your counter-proposals. * **Communicate your concerns:** During the recess, consider communicating your concerns in writing to the ARD committee. This allows them to understand your perspective and potentially address your concerns before the reconvened meeting. * **The 10 days are calendar days, not school days.** * **The ARD committee *must* reconvene at the end of the recess.** They cannot deny your request for a reconvened meeting. The 10-day recess provides you with a valuable opportunity to carefully consider the proposed IEP and ensure it meets your child's needs. Don't hesitate to utilize this tool if you have concerns or disagreements.

Disagreeing With the ARD Team

Despite your best efforts, you may find yourself disagreeing with the ARD committee's decisions. It is crucial to remember that you have rights and options available to you. Here's a breakdown of what you can do: 1. **Document your disagreement:** Clearly state your disagreement during the ARD meeting and document it in the meeting minutes. Request that your dissenting opinion be recorded accurately. 2. **Request Mediation:** Under IDEA and TEC §29.0052, you have the right to request mediation with the school district. Mediation involves a neutral third party who facilitates communication and helps the parties reach a mutually agreeable resolution. Mediation is a voluntary process, and both parties must agree to participate. 3. **Request a Due Process Hearing:** If mediation is unsuccessful or not desired, you have the right to request a due process hearing (TEC §29.008). This is a formal legal proceeding in which an impartial hearing officer hears evidence and makes a decision regarding your child's IEP. Due process hearings can be complex and time-consuming, so it is advisable to seek legal representation. 4. **File a State Complaint:** You can also file a complaint with the Texas Education Agency (TEA) if you believe the school district has violated IDEA or TEC. The complaint must be filed within one year of the alleged violation. The TEA will investigate the complaint and issue a ruling. Information on how to file a complaint can be found on the TEA website. **Important Considerations When Disagreeing:** * **Remain respectful but assertive:** Advocate for your child's needs while maintaining a respectful and professional demeanor. * **Focus on data and evidence:** Support your concerns with concrete data, observations, and documentation. * **Understand your rights:** Familiarize yourself with your rights under IDEA and TEC. * **Seek legal advice:** Consider consulting with an attorney specializing in special education law to understand your legal options and navigate the dispute resolution process. Disagreeing with the ARD committee can be challenging, but it is important to remember that you are your child's strongest advocate. By understanding your rights and utilizing the available dispute resolution options, you can ensure that your child receives the appropriate education and services.

Filing a State Complaint

Filing a state complaint with the Texas Education Agency (TEA) is a formal process to address concerns about a school district's compliance with IDEA or the Texas Education Code (TEC). This is different from due process, which is a more formal legal procedure. A state complaint can be a good option when you believe the district has violated regulations but don't necessarily require a full-blown legal battle. **Here's what you need to know about filing a state complaint in Texas:** * **Timeline:** You must file the complaint within one year of the alleged violation. This is a strict deadline, so it is important to act promptly. * **Content of the Complaint:** Your complaint must include the following information: * Your name and contact information. * Your child's name, date of birth, and school. * The name and contact information of the school district. * A clear and concise description of the alleged violation, including specific facts and dates. * The specific provisions of IDEA or TEC that you believe have been violated. * Your proposed resolution of the problem. * **How to File:** The complaint must be submitted in writing to the TEA. The TEA website provides detailed instructions on how to file a complaint, including the required forms. * **TEA Investigation:** Once the TEA receives your complaint, they will investigate the allegations. This may involve reviewing documents, interviewing witnesses, and conducting on-site visits. * **TEA Determination:** Within 60 days of receiving the complaint, the TEA will issue a written decision. The decision will state whether or not the school district has violated IDEA or TEC. * **Corrective Action:** If the TEA finds that the school district has violated IDEA or TEC, 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. * **Appeal:** If you are not satisfied with the TEA's decision, you may have the right to appeal. The TEA will provide information on the appeal process in its decision. **Tips for Filing a Successful State Complaint:** * **Be Specific:** Provide as much detail as possible about the alleged violation, including dates, times, and names of individuals involved. * **Cite Specific Laws:** Refer to the specific provisions of IDEA or TEC that you believe have been violated. * **Gather Evidence:** Include any relevant documents or information that supports your complaint, such as IEPs, evaluation reports, progress reports, and correspondence with the school district. * **Be Clear About Your Desired Outcome:** State clearly what you want the school district to do to resolve the problem. * **Keep Copies:** Keep copies of all documents related to your complaint, including the complaint itself, the TEA's decision, and any correspondence with the TEA or the school district. Filing a state complaint can be a valuable tool for advocating for your child's rights. By understanding the process and following these tips, you can increase your chances of a successful outcome. Remember, you are your child's best advocate!

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 4 (TEA ESC)

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

Houston ISD Cypress-Fairbanks ISD Fort Bend ISD Conroe ISD Aldine ISD

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