What is a manifestation determination meeting?

Quick answer

A manifestation determination review, or MDR, is a team meeting held within 10 school days of a decision to change placement because of discipline. The team decides whether the conduct was caused by the child's disability or the school's failure to implement the IEP. If yes, the child generally returns to placement with a revised FBA or BIP.

What this means for parents

The MDR is not a punishment hearing. It is a structured review with specific legal questions.

• Required members include you, relevant IEP team members, and the district.
• The team reviews all relevant information in the child's file, including the IEP and teacher observations.
• Question one: was the conduct caused by, or substantially related to, the disability?
• Question two: was the conduct a direct result of the school's failure to implement the IEP?
• If either answer is yes, the removal is usually ended and supports must be addressed.

Questions to ask before and during an MDR

Prepare with records because the meeting moves quickly.

1. What documents will the team review, and may I submit private evaluations or medical information?
2. How does my child's disability relate to the behavior in this incident?
3. Was the IEP, including the BIP, implemented fully before the incident?
4. If behavior is a manifestation, what changes will be made before my child returns?
5. If I disagree with the outcome, what are my appeal options?

Simple parent script

Common mistakes to avoid

• Attending an MDR without IEP implementation records or behavior data.
• Letting the team treat the meeting as a guilt discussion instead of the two legal questions.
• Not bringing medical or private evaluator input when disability connection is clear.
• Assuming a no manifestation result ends your right to challenge.
• Skipping FBA or BIP revision after a yes manifestation finding.

When to get more help

Consider getting help before an MDR when discipline is serious, the school claims the IEP was implemented but you have evidence it was not, or you need help appealing a no manifestation decision.