Manifestation Determinations: An Interdisciplinary Guide to Best Practices

Students with disabilities are overrepresented within the population of students suspended or expelled from school. When a student with a disability faces an expulsion or suspension equaling more than 10 days, a manifestation determination review (MDR) must be held to determine the cause(s) of the student’s behavior. This article examines the benefits of interdisciplinary decision-making and recommendations for best practices in interdisciplinary MDR committees. The literature recommends that MDR committees actively involve all members, particularly the student’s parent(s)/guardian(s), general education teacher, school psychologist or behavior analyst, and utilize evidence-based interventions. The committee should have a shared goal, use common language, and ask specific, uniform questions. Finally, the committee members should demonstrate respect and receptivity and allow for open communication.