When it comes to Special Education and discipline, there are many legal requirements that often pose unique challenges that can have a significant impact on an LEA's compliance. 

The NEW Reducing Disciplinary Removal Rates virtual series is intended to help district and campus leaders deepen their understanding on how disciplinary removals impact RDA Indicator 18 data and student performance. Participants will receive informative legal requirements, practical tips and strategies that have been effective in reducing Special Education disciplinary removal rates while increasing student performance and school climate. 

You will not want to miss out on this first ever developed series. 

Sessions Include:

Understanding Indicator RDA Indicator 18: SPED Total Disciplinary Removal Rates, Part I  (November 6th, 9-11 AM)

Join us for an in-depth exploration of RDA Indicator 18, which focuses on the Total Disciplinary Removals Rate for students aged 3-21 in special education (SPED) programs. This session will delve into how we measure the percentage of disciplinary removals for these students, utilizing detailed data from the Public Education Information Management System (PEIMS).

We’ll examine how frequently students in special education are removed from their classrooms due to disciplinary actions and discuss the insights this data provides. Our goal is to uncover patterns, understand the underlying factors, and explore strategies for improving disciplinary practices to better support our special education students.

Your participation will be key as we work together to enhance our understanding and address potential areas for improvement.

Understanding Indicator RDA Indicator 18: SPED Total Disciplinary Removal Rates, Part II (February 19th 9-11 AM)

In this session, we'll provide step-by-step how to utilize On Data Suite for detailed data analysis at both the campus and student levels. For those LEAs that don't use On Data Suite, we’ll offer a mock sample to help you grasp the importance of this data in making informed decisions and identifying gaps in processes and procedures.

Understanding Indicator RDA Indicator 18: SPED Total Disciplinary Removal Rates, Part III (May 12th, 9-11 AM)

In this session, school districts will review their live data reports for the 2024-25 school year, focusing on identifying coding discrepancies and discussing next steps. This preparation is crucial for the upcoming PEIMS data submission, which is due on June 20, 2025.

Alternatives to Disciplinary Removal & Restorative Practices (December 12th, 9-11 AM)

This session will uncover a variety of strategies that go beyond traditional disciplinary measures. Learn how to effectively use these alternatives to prevent disruptions, resolve conflicts, and maintain a positive learning environment.

This session will also delve into the principles of restorative justice in education to foster an understanding on how these practices can repair harm, restore relationships, and build a strong community.

Successful Stories from the Field (January 30th, 9-11 AM)

Come listen to LEAs across the state who have implemented various approaches that have decreased the special education disciplinary removals rate that improved their RDA Indicator 18 performance level. Learn from them as they share new systems and process developed, stronger data tracking systems enforced, targeted training provided and working more collaboratively as a team across the LEA. 

Fostering a Supportive School Environment: Special Education Discipline and Behavioral Strategies for Administrators (March 3rd, 9-11 AM)

This session will explore effective discipline alternatives that comply with legal requirements and promote positive behavioral outcomes for all students. The session will delve into factors influencing student behavior, such as trauma and adverse childhood experiences, and discuss how these can impact a student's ability to succeed in a traditional school setting.

Administrators will learn about the critical role of fostering a positive school culture and how it can serve as a foundation for student success. This session will introduce Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) as a framework for addressing the diverse needs of students, emphasizing early intervention, targeted support, and evidence-based practices. In addition, administrators will receive insight on specific discipline law as it pertains to students in Special Education.

Behavior/Discipline Legal Requirements & Best Practices (April 2, 9-11 AM)

This legal session will help develop knowledge and understanding on the campus leader's role and responsibility to support with fidelity the implementation of Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPS), Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs), and conducting Manifestation Determination Reviews (MDRs). The session will include legal requirements and best practices.

Intended Audience: District/Campus Administrators, Behavior Specialists/Coordinators, Special Education Directors/Coordinators

The sessions in this series will be recorded except the April 2nd legal session. A google folder will be set up to share with registered participants that will contain the webinar recordings and all materials and resources for each session. Participants will have access to the view the recordings and access the resources through July 31, 2025.

Please NOTE: Participants can register at anytime throughout this series as previous session recordings and materials will be available.

Questions? Contact Kimberly Baumgardner at kimberly.baumgardner2@esc20.net