ARD Meeting Guide: San Antonio ISD

San Antonio 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 San Antonio ISD: A Parent Advocate's Guide

As a parent navigating the special education system in San Antonio ISD, you are your child's most important advocate. ARD (Admission, Review, and Dismissal) meetings are crucial opportunities to ensure your child receives the appropriate supports and services to thrive. This guide aims to empower you with the knowledge and confidence to effectively participate in these meetings and advocate for your child's needs.

What Is an ARD Meeting?

An ARD meeting is a conference held to make decisions about your child's special education program. Texas Education Code (TEC) §29.005 outlines the requirements for ARD committees. These meetings are required under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), specifically 34 CFR §300.321, which mandates the development and implementation of an Individualized Education Program (IEP) for eligible students with disabilities. The ARD committee is composed of key individuals who collaborate to develop, review, and revise your child's IEP. The members typically include: * **Parents:** You are a critical member of the ARD committee and have the right to participate fully in all discussions and decisions. Your insights into your child's strengths, needs, and learning style are invaluable. * **Special Education Teacher:** This teacher has expertise in special education methodologies and can provide insight into the appropriate instructional strategies and supports for your child. * **General Education Teacher:** If your child participates in general education classes, the general education teacher provides information about the curriculum, classroom expectations, and your child's performance in the general education setting. * **Campus Administrator:** The campus administrator (e.g., principal, assistant principal) ensures that the IEP is implemented appropriately and that resources are allocated effectively. * **Evaluation Personnel:** This individual, such as an educational diagnostician or school psychologist, interprets assessment results and provides recommendations for your child's educational program. * **Related Service Providers:** Depending on your child's needs, related service providers such as speech therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, and counselors may participate to address specific areas of support. * **The Student (When Appropriate):** IDEA encourages student participation in ARD meetings, especially as they get older. Your child's perspective is essential in shaping their IEP. * **Other Individuals (Invited by Parent or District):** You have the right to invite anyone you believe can contribute to the ARD meeting, such as a private therapist, advocate, or family member. The school district can also invite individuals with knowledge or special expertise regarding your child. The primary purpose of the ARD meeting is to develop, review, and revise your child's IEP. The IEP is a legally binding document that outlines your child's educational goals, the special education and related services they will receive, and how their progress will be measured. It also includes information about accommodations, modifications, and placement. You can reference the TEA's Model IEP as an example of what the components should include.

The 5-Day Notice Rule

Texas law requires that you receive written notice of an ARD meeting at least five school days before the scheduled date. This notice must include the purpose of the meeting, the date, time, and location of the meeting, and a list of individuals who will be attending. This is laid out in TEC §29.005 and the Texas Administrative Code (TAC). **Key Considerations Regarding the 5-Day Notice:** * **Waiver:** You have the right to waive the 5-day notice requirement if you agree to hold the meeting sooner. However, do not feel pressured to waive your rights. Take the time you need to prepare adequately. * **Content of the Notice:** Carefully review the notice to ensure it provides sufficient information about the meeting's purpose and participants. If you are unclear about anything, contact the school district to request clarification. * **Rescheduling:** If the proposed date or time is not convenient for you, request to reschedule the meeting. The school district must make reasonable efforts to accommodate your schedule. * **Documentation:** Keep a copy of the ARD meeting notice for your records. This is essential documentation if you need to demonstrate that the school district has complied with the notice requirements.

What to Bring to the ARD Meeting

Preparation is key to a successful ARD meeting. Gathering and organizing relevant information beforehand will help you advocate effectively for your child's needs. Consider bringing the following items: * **Your Child's Records:** Gather copies of your child's previous IEPs, evaluation reports, progress reports, and any other relevant documents from the school district. * **Outside Evaluations and Reports:** If you have obtained independent evaluations or reports from therapists, doctors, or other professionals, bring copies to share with the ARD committee. These reports can provide valuable insights into your child's strengths and needs. * **Your Observations and Concerns:** Write down your observations about your child's learning style, strengths, challenges, and progress at home and in school. Be specific and provide examples. Prepare a list of your concerns and questions for the ARD committee. * **Goals and Priorities:** Develop a list of your goals and priorities for your child's education. What do you want your child to achieve academically, socially, and emotionally? * **Documentation of Communication:** Bring documentation of any communication you have had with school staff regarding your child's special education program, such as emails, notes from phone calls, or meeting summaries. * **Advocate or Support Person:** Consider bringing a knowledgeable advocate or support person to the ARD meeting. They can provide emotional support, take notes, and help you articulate your concerns. * **Draft IEP:** It is sometimes helpful to draft your own version of the IEP based on your goals. While the committee will make the final decisions, this demonstrates that you have thought carefully about your child's needs and you are prepared to collaborate with the team.

The 10-Day Recess (aka the "Cooling Off" Period)

Texas law provides parents with a valuable tool: the 10-day recess. Following an ARD meeting, you have the right to request a 10-day recess to review the proposed IEP before providing your consent. This is also found in TEC §29.005. **Understanding the 10-Day Recess:** * **Requesting the Recess:** You must explicitly request the 10-day recess from the ARD committee. Make this request clear and document it in the ARD meeting minutes. * **Purpose of the Recess:** The 10-day recess allows you to thoroughly review the proposed IEP, seek input from outside experts, and consider your options before making a final decision. * **No Implementation:** During the 10-day recess, the proposed IEP cannot be implemented unless you provide your written consent. * **Using the Time Effectively:** Use the recess to carefully review the IEP, compare it to your child's needs, and identify any areas of concern. Consult with experts, such as advocates, therapists, or attorneys, for their input. * **Informing the District:** After the 10-day recess, you must inform the school district whether you consent to the IEP, reject the IEP, or request further revisions. * **Waiver:** You can waive your right to the 10-day recess and approve the IEP immediately, but do not feel pressured to do so.

Disagreeing with the Team

It is not uncommon for parents to disagree with the ARD committee's recommendations. Remember, you are an equal member of the team, and your voice matters. If you disagree with the proposed IEP, there are several options available to you: * **Express Your Concerns:** Clearly and respectfully articulate your concerns to the ARD committee. Provide specific examples and data to support your position. * **Request Further Discussion:** Request that the ARD committee reconsider its recommendations based on your concerns. Provide additional information or seek clarification on specific issues. * **Document Your Dissent:** If the ARD committee is unwilling to address your concerns, request that your dissent be documented in the ARD meeting minutes. This is essential if you decide to pursue further action. * **Partial Agreement:** You can agree with parts of the IEP and disagree with other parts. Make it clear which components of the IEP you are accepting and which you are rejecting. The parts you agree to will be implemented. * **Mediation:** Request mediation through the Texas Education Agency (TEA). Mediation is a voluntary process where a neutral third party helps you and the school district reach a mutually agreeable resolution. * **Due Process Hearing:** If mediation is unsuccessful, you have the right to request a due process hearing. A due process hearing is a formal legal proceeding where an impartial hearing officer hears evidence and makes a decision about the dispute.

Filing a State Complaint

As outlined in 34 CFR §300.151-153, you have the right to file a formal state complaint with the Texas Education Agency (TEA) if you believe the school district has violated IDEA or state special education laws. This process involves submitting a written complaint to TEA outlining the specific violations and providing supporting documentation. **Key Considerations for Filing a State Complaint:** * **Timeframe:** You must file the complaint within one year of the alleged violation. * **Content of the Complaint:** Your complaint must be clear, concise, and specific. Identify the specific violations of IDEA or state law and provide supporting documentation. * **TEA Investigation:** TEA will investigate your complaint and determine whether the school district has violated the law. If TEA finds a violation, it will order the school district to take corrective action. * **Available Remedies:** Remedies for state complaints can include compensatory services for your child, staff training, and changes to district policies and procedures. * **Resources:** The TEA provides resources and guidance on filing state complaints on their website. You can also seek assistance from disability rights organizations or attorneys specializing in special education law. Remember, you are not alone in navigating the special education system in San Antonio ISD. By understanding your rights, preparing effectively for ARD meetings, and advocating assertively for your child's needs, you can ensure that your child receives the appropriate supports and services to reach their full potential. Do not hesitate to seek assistance from advocacy organizations, attorneys, or other professionals who can help you navigate this complex process.

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 20 (TEA ESC)

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

Northside ISD North East ISD Comal ISD Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City ISD Judson ISD

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