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

Written Summaries and Follow-Up

Referral to Special Education Attorney

Families don’t have to face disciplinary challenges alone. Bartley Advocacy offers clear guidance and compassionate support to protect your child’s rights and ensure fair outcomes.

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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

Maria Thompson
3 months ago

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.

James and Laura Kim
6 weeks ago

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.

Samantha Rodriguez
2 months ago

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.

David Nguyen
1 month ago

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.

Schedule Your Consultation

Connect with Toshia Bartley for personalized guidance through your child’s disciplinary challenges. Gain clarity, confidence, and compassionate support every step of the way.

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