According to the 1997 IDEA revision, students with disabilities cannot be suspended or expelled if the misbehavior is caused by what?

According to the 1997 IDEA revision, students with disabilities cannot be suspended or expelled if the misbehavior is caused by what?

• A. The student's disability.
• B. Student's age.
• C. The school's funding level.
• D. The parent's preference.

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that discipline for students with disabilities hinges on whether the misbehavior is caused by the disability. In the 1997 IDEA revision, if a student’s misconduct is caused by or directly related to the disability, the student can’t be suspended or expelled for that behavior. Instead, the school must determine, through a manifestation determination, whether the behavior is a manifestation of the disability, and if so, address it within the IEP framework—using supports, services, or a behavioral plan rather than removing the student. This protects students from punitive removals when the behavior stems from their disability. Choices about age, funding, or parental preference aren’t the determining factor here.

The main idea is that discipline for students with disabilities hinges on whether the misbehavior is caused by the disability. In the 1997 IDEA revision, if a student’s misconduct is caused by or directly related to the disability, the student can’t be suspended or expelled for that behavior. Instead, the school must determine, through a manifestation determination, whether the behavior is a manifestation of the disability, and if so, address it within the IEP framework—using supports, services, or a behavioral plan rather than removing the student. This protects students from punitive removals when the behavior stems from their disability. Choices about age, funding, or parental preference aren’t the determining factor here.