In a manifestation determination review, how is the process described when a student with a disability is disciplined for behavior that violates school rules?

• A. The MDT would be completed within 10 school days to determine if the behavior is linked to the disability.
• B. The discipline proceeds without MDT review.
• C. The MDT is not required for discipline decisions.
• D. If linked, address through IEP behavioral supports; if not, discipline proceeds with protections.

Answer: (D)

The key idea is deciding whether the discipline problem is a manifestation of the student’s disability or a result of not implementing the IEP. If the behavior is linked to the disability, the IEP team must respond by addressing it through the student’s IEP with behavioral supports—typically adding or adjusting a Behavioral Intervention Plan and related services so the student can receive appropriate instruction and supports while addressing the behavior. If the behavior is not linked to the disability, the student can be disciplined using the same procedures as students without disabilities, but the school must still provide any required services and protections under IDEA to ensure continued access to FAPE and due process.