Determination of Specific Learning Disability (SLD)

Ithaca Public Schools will use a Pattern of Strengths and Weaknesses Process for the determination of a Specific Learning Disability for all buildings and all grades in the district. This process is based on the following parameters.

1. The student does not achieve adequately for the student's age or to meet State-approved grade level standards in one or more of the areas identified at 34 CFR S 300.309(a)(1)(i) when provided with learning experiences and instruction appropriate for the student's age or State-approved grade level standards; and

2. The student exhibits a pattern of strengths and weaknesses in performance, achievement, or both, relative to age, State-approved grade level standards, or intellectual development, that is determined by the Multidisciplinary Evaluation Team (MET) to be relevant to the identification of a SLD, using appropriate assessments, consistent with the IDEA Evaluation Procedures and Additional Requirements for Evaluations and reevaluations.

In making a determination as to whether a student has or continues to have a specific learning disability, Ithaca Public Schools will also comply with all applicable federal regulations and State rules, including those addressing comprehensive evaluations, determination of the existence of a specific learning disability, observation of academic performance and behavior in the area(s) of difficulty, specific documentation for SLD eligibility determination, and reevaluation requirements.