Discusses issues related to implementing the new discipline provisions in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act Amendments of 1997. Litigation that led to the new provisions is described, along with issues relating to conducting functional assessments, making a manifestation determination, generating interim placements, and cessation of…

Existing policies of local education agencies in Virginia concerning suspension and expulsion of handicapped students were evaluated in light of 6 recommended components. Responses of 78 special education directors to a questionnaire were synthesized with the policy information to develop a model procedure reflecting current trends in disciplining…

A review of the literature on special education and school discipline in light of the 1997 Amendments to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act finds little evidence to support student suspension and expulsion. Support is offered for a unified system of discipline that preserves both a free and appropriate public education and a safe…