What is the primary purpose of the eligibility determination meeting?

• A. To plan the student's Section 504 plan.
• B. To examine MDT data and determine if the student qualifies as a child with a disability under IDEA.
• C. To assess the overall performance of the multi-disciplinary team.
• D. To plan the student's individualized educational program.

Answer: (B)

The primary purpose of the eligibility determination meeting is to examine data from a multi-disciplinary team (MDT) and assess whether the student qualifies as a child with a disability under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). This meeting is crucial because it formalizes the process of documentation and evaluation that revolves around a student's needs and challenges.

During this meeting, team members review assessments, observations, and any relevant information from parents and teachers to make an informed decision about a student’s eligibility for special education services. If a student is found eligible, this determination will guide the development of an Individualized Education Program (IEP) tailored to that student's specific needs, but the primary focus of the eligibility determination meeting itself is solely on the qualifications for disability status under IDEA, not on the IEP or Section 504 plans.

Understanding this process is key to ensuring that students receive appropriate support and resources in educational settings, as it lays the groundwork for identifying those who need special education services.