What is the responsibility of the staffing specialist when an ESE student is given out-of-school suspension?

What is the responsibility of the staffing specialist when an ESE student is given out-of-school suspension?

• A. Hold a manifestation hearing to determine if the altercation was a result of the student's disability
• B. Review the school's behavior policy
• C. Advise the principal on alternative punishments
• D. Contact the parents to discuss further actions

Answer: (A)

The primary responsibility of the staffing specialist when an ESE (Exceptional Student Education) student is given out-of-school suspension is to hold a manifestation hearing. This hearing is a critical component of ensuring the rights of students with disabilities are upheld under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). During a manifestation hearing, the committee evaluates whether the behavior that led to the suspension was a direct result of the student's disability or a consequence of a failure to implement the student's Individualized Education Program (IEP). This determination is vital because it influences whether the student can be disciplined in the same manner as their non-disabled peers or whether alternative measures must be considered. In this context, the other responsibilities outlined, such as reviewing the behavior policy, advising on alternative punishments, or contacting parents, are part of broader school management and communication processes, but they do not address the specific legal and educational requirements mandated for students with disabilities facing disciplinary actions. Hence, the manifestation hearing is the key responsibility and is necessary to ensure fair treatment and appropriate educational access for the student.

The primary responsibility of the staffing specialist when an ESE (Exceptional Student Education) student is given out-of-school suspension is to hold a manifestation hearing. This hearing is a critical component of ensuring the rights of students with disabilities are upheld under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

During a manifestation hearing, the committee evaluates whether the behavior that led to the suspension was a direct result of the student's disability or a consequence of a failure to implement the student's Individualized Education Program (IEP). This determination is vital because it influences whether the student can be disciplined in the same manner as their non-disabled peers or whether alternative measures must be considered.

In this context, the other responsibilities outlined, such as reviewing the behavior policy, advising on alternative punishments, or contacting parents, are part of broader school management and communication processes, but they do not address the specific legal and educational requirements mandated for students with disabilities facing disciplinary actions. Hence, the manifestation hearing is the key responsibility and is necessary to ensure fair treatment and appropriate educational access for the student.