You’re Invited to My Child’s ARD Meeting

You may know a lot about special education. Or you may be attending your very first Admissions, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) meeting. Either way, you will agree: It is an intimidating process.

During the ARD, you will sit in a conference room. Therapists and educators will sit across from you. It can feel like “us vs. them.” The process can feel like a battle. But it doesn’t have to be that way.

Parents are not alone in the ARD process. Ask for help. It's available.

Invite anyone you want to your ARD meeting. No training is required to attend as an advocate. Bring anyone you trust. A family member, friend, or pastor can ease the process. They can offer security as you build your child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP).

Trained advocates who know special education law can help too. Social workers or legal aides, for example. They can attend the meeting with you. Parents often benefit from their knowledge.

Remember, you are not alone when seeking services.

There is more information available in the Education and Schools section on ARD meetings.