What is the role of a special education teacher in the ARD process?

The role of a special education teacher in the ARD (Admission, Review, and Dismissal) process primarily involves facilitating the IEP (Individualized Education Program) meetings. This is a crucial function because the ARD process is designed to collaboratively develop, review, and revise the educational program for students with disabilities. The special education teacher helps ensure that all members of the ARD committee, including parents, general education teachers, and other relevant professionals, are able to share their insights, concerns, and suggestions regarding the student’s educational needs.

Facilitating these meetings requires the special education teacher to effectively communicate information about the student's strengths, areas of need, and goals, as well as to navigate discussions around assessment data and service delivery options. This role is essential for ensuring that the ARD process is collaborative and student-centered, resulting in an IEP that is tailored to meet the unique needs of the student.

While ensuring compliance with educational standards, developing curriculum for all students, and assessing all students in the classroom are important tasks in the educational environment, they are not the specific focus of a special education teacher within the context of the ARD process. The main emphasis here is on collaboration and advocacy for the student’s individual educational plan.