Manifestation Determination

Children with mental health disorders and other disabilities may have difficulty regulating their emotions while at school.

Sometimes school staff may discipline a child who has an Individualized Education Program (IEP) related to their mental health, behavioral disorders, or other disabilities. This discipline may include being sent home early from school, in-school or out-of-school suspension, or other consequences that align with the school district’s discipline policy.

There are some situations in which schools are required to continue to provide educational services for children with disabilities who are not allowed in school due to a violation of the districts discipline policy. When this occurs, parents and school staff need to hold a meeting called a manifestation determination to decide next steps.  

Frequently Asked Questions