What is the primary role of the ARD committee in special education?

The primary role of the ARD (Admission, Review, and Dismissal) committee in special education is to develop Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for students who are eligible for special education services. This process involves a collaborative team of educators, parents, and specialists who come together to assess the unique needs of the student, set specific educational goals, and determine the appropriate services and accommodations that will support the student's learning and development.

The IEP is a crucial document that outlines the student’s strengths, areas of need, and the specific strategies and services necessary for their educational success. The ARD committee ensures that the IEP is tailored to the individual student, reflecting their particular context and supporting their educational journey comprehensively. This team approach promotes a holistic view of the student’s needs, allowing for adjustments to be made as necessary based on ongoing assessments and evaluations.

In contrast, functions such as determining student grades, assessing classroom behavior, or conducting teacher evaluations do not fall under the scope of the ARD committee’s responsibilities. Instead, these roles are typically managed by teachers and school administrators within the standard educational framework, separate from the specialized focus of IEP development.