What best describes the Student Support Team in many schools?

• A. A team designed to replace the IEP process for students with disabilities.
• B. A team of parents and educational professionals who support students in the general education classroom who are not qualifying for special education.
• C. A committee that manages disciplinary actions.
• D. A committee that selects courses for students.

Answer: (B)

The Student Support Team is a collaborative problem-solving group that includes teachers, specialists, administrators, and often parents, focused on helping students who are struggling in the general education setting but do not yet qualify for special education. The team analyzes the student’s data, identifies barriers to progress, and designs targeted interventions that can be implemented in the classroom, with ongoing progress monitoring to see if the strategies are working or if the student needs additional supports or a referral for more services. This proactive approach fits within MTSS/RTI frameworks and aims to prevent escalation by providing timely supports in the general education setting.

It’s not meant to replace the IEP for students who qualify for special education, and it isn’t a disciplinary committee or a group that selects courses.