Manifestation+Determination

A manifestation determination is required by IDEA when considering exclusion of a student with a disability that constitutes a disciplinary change in placement.

The manifestation determination must take place within 10 school days of any decision to change the placement of a student with a disability because of violation of a student code of conduct. The manifestation determination is conducted by the LEA, the parent, and relevant members of the IEP team (as determined by the parent and the LEA).

If the team determines that the behavior was a manifestation of the student’s disability the IEP team must either: (1) Conduct an FBA, unless the LEA had conducted an FBA before the behavior that resulted in the change of placement occurred, and implement a positive behavior support plan for the student; or (2) If a positive behavior support plan has already been developed, review the plan, and modify it, as necessary, to address the behavior; and return the student to the placement from which the student was removed.