What is the purpose of a Manifestation Determination Review (MDR)?

The purpose of a Manifestation Determination Review (MDR) is to examine the connection between a student's disability and their behavior, particularly in situations where disciplinary action is being considered. The MDR process is mandated by federal law under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and is designed to ensure that students with disabilities are not unfairly punished for behaviors that are a manifestation of their disabilities.

During the review, the team—typically consisting of educators, parents, and, when appropriate, the student—analyzes whether the behavior in question is directly linked to the student's disability or if it was a result of failure to implement the individualized education plan (IEP). If it is determined that the behavior is a manifestation of the student's disability, disciplinary actions may not be applicable, and alternative approaches, such as adjustments to the IEP or additional support services, might be pursued instead.

This process is crucial in safeguarding the rights of students with disabilities and ensuring that they receive appropriate educational support rather than punitive measures that could hinder their access to education.