Understanding Manifestation Determination Reviews
Clarifying your child’s rights during disciplinary actions under IEP or 504 plans
Manifestation Determination & Discipline Advocacy Services
A Manifestation Determination Review (MDR) evaluates whether a student's behavior is linked to their disability, ensuring disciplinary actions comply with special education law and focus on support rather than punishment.
IEP and 504 Plan Review
Behavior and Discipline Records Analysis
Functional Behavior Assessment & Intervention Plan Review
Parent Input Preparation
Meeting Attendance and Support
Collaboration on Corrective Actions
Toshia Bartley combines her experience as a former principal with a heartfelt approach to guide families through school discipline challenges, ensuring their child’s rights are protected with clarity and care.
Guidance with empathy
Support from an Experienced Advocate
Compassion
Expertise
Trust
Family Stories of Support and Success
Real experiences from parents who found clarity and confidence with Bartley Advocacy

Toshia’s guidance helped me understand the complex language of the IEP and gave me the confidence to speak up during the disciplinary meeting. We felt truly supported every step of the way.

Having Toshia by our side made the difference between feeling overwhelmed and feeling empowered. She explained our rights clearly and helped us prepare for the manifestation determination review with compassion.

The advocacy support was invaluable during a difficult time. Toshia’s experience as a former principal showed in how she navigated the school system and ensured our child’s needs were prioritized.

We never felt alone facing the disciplinary process. Toshia’s clear explanations and presence at meetings gave us peace of mind and helped us focus on what’s best for our child.
Common Questions About Manifestation Determination and Discipline Advocacy
A Manifestation Determination Review (MDR) is a required meeting to decide if a student's behavior that led to disciplinary action is linked to their disability. This process ensures that discipline is fair and that the student's rights under their IEP or 504 Plan are protected. Our advocacy services guide families through each step, clarifying procedures and supporting effective communication with schools.
What is the purpose of a Manifestation Determination Review?
The MDR determines whether a student's behavior was caused by or directly related to their disability. This helps decide if disciplinary actions like suspension or expulsion are appropriate or if alternative supports are needed.How does Bartley Advocacy support families during disciplinary meetings?
We review your child’s IEP or 504 Plan, analyze behavior data, and prepare you with clear talking points. We attend meetings alongside you to ensure your child’s rights are upheld and that the school team focuses on supportive solutions.What happens if the school does not follow proper procedures?
We carefully check for procedural compliance and service delivery. If violations occur, we help you understand your options, including referring you to a special education attorney if formal due process is necessary.Can Bartley Advocacy help with behavior plans and re-entry supports?
Yes. We review Functional Behavior Assessments and Behavior Intervention Plans, collaborate with the school to develop corrective actions, and support smooth re-entry to the classroom with appropriate accommodations.
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