As a parent of a child with special education needs in San Antonio, Texas, understanding the Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) process is crucial for ensuring your child receives appropriate support. Brighton’s newest educational video “Lost in ARD!” offers valuable insights for parents feeling overwhelmed by this special education planning process, including ARD Committees and ARD Meetings in Texas.
Why Parents Need to Understand the ARD Process
The Texas ARD process involves numerous documents, timelines, and procedures that can be difficult to navigate, especially for parents new to special education. Juan Hernandez, Director of Special Education Support Services (SESS), says, “Everyone on the ARD committee is committed to supporting your child. Your role as a parent-advocate is irreplaceable in the special education system.” Brighton’s SESS team is staffed by skilled education consultants available to walk parents through this process and learn how to become your child’s best advocate in ARD Meetings. The initial consultation is free.
Parents are in the Driver’s Seat of Your Child’s Education
The most powerful message from this video is that parents should view themselves as being “in the driver’s seat” throughout the entire Texas ARD process. Juan says, “Like a driver navigating toward a destination, you’re steering your child’s educational journey toward their post-school life, whether that involves further education, employment, or independent living in Texas.”
The ARD committee members are the passengers, and the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) is your roadmap. Just as you’d verify directions before traveling San Antonio’s highways, you must carefully review the IEP to ensure it contains the right supports and services for your child in the Texas education system.
Finding Your Voice in ARD Meetings in Texas as a Special Education Advocate
In the video, Juan emphasizes that San Antonio parents shouldn’t simply accept whatever is in the proposed IEP. Instead:
- Request a draft of the IEP before the ARD Meeting in Texas.
- Review each section carefully according to Texas’ special education guidelines.
- For each recommendation, goal, and accommodation, be prepared to ask educators:
- “Why is this being recommended for my student?”
- “What does this mean for my child?”
- “What data supports this recommendation for my child?”
You can also question why certain services or modifications aren’t being provided.
Building ARD Experience for San Antonio Parents
Juan reassures parents that, like navigating San Antonio’s highways, the ARD process becomes easier with experience. Each meeting helps you become more adept at reviewing the IEP, asking questions, and advocating for your child’s needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the members of the Admissions, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) Committee?▶
The ARD committee members in an ARD Meeting in Texas include the following:
- You, the parent;
- At least one regular education teacher of the child who must, when possible, be a teacher who is responsible for implementing a portion of the child’s IEP;
- At least one special education teacher or provider of the child;
- A representative of the school;
- A person who can interpret the instructional implications of the evaluation results;
- Other individuals who have knowledge or special expertise regarding the child and are invited by either you or the school;
- Whenever appropriate, the child.
How can Brighton’s SESS consultants help parents new to the ARD process?▶
The Special Education Support Services team helps parents understand and access special education and support services for their child within the public school system. Our special education consultants will meet with you to learn about your child, their needs, and the goals you have for them. We will review documentation you have about your child and then help you create a plan to achieve these outcomes in the school setting. We also provide assistance with how to communicate with the school and the child’s ARD committee to request services and support and can attend ARD meetings with families to provide support and assist with communication between the family and school personnel.
What other ways can Brighton’s SESS team help?▶
Our special education consultants conduct workshops and can provide additional community resources that can help parents get the necessary information and support they need.
You Are Your Child’s Best Advocate
You are an expert on your child. In the video, Juan stresses the importance of becoming empowered to use that knowledge effectively within the special education system. By understanding the Texas ARD process and actively participating in it through ARD Meetings, you can ensure your child receives the support they need to succeed both in San Antonio schools and beyond.
Don’t be afraid to speak up, ask questions, and steer the process toward the outcomes that will best serve your child’s unique needs and future.
Brighton’s Special Education Support Services team helps parents of children ages 3-8 with 1-on-1 counseling to understand and access special education and support services for their child within the public school system. Our Education Consultants review evaluations, individual education plans, and attend ARD meetings with your child’s school. Learn more about Brighton and our early childhood and special education support services by visiting our Special Education Library. Click here to let us know how we can help put your child on the road to academic success.
