What does ARD stand for in an educational context?

In the educational context, ARD stands for Admission Review and Dismissal. This term is particularly significant in special education, where it refers to the meeting that determines whether a student qualifies for special education services and how those services are to be implemented. The ARD committee, which typically includes the student's parents, teachers, and other relevant staff, convenes to review the student's needs, evaluate their performance, and make decisions about the educational plan, including what accommodations or modifications might be necessary.

This process is crucial for ensuring that students receive appropriate support tailored to their individual needs, and it regulates how these services are provided over time, including the potential dismissal from special education when appropriate. The term encapsulates both the admission process for special education services and the decisions regarding a student’s continued eligibility or need for those services.