MDE Special Education 5

Question 1

Which dispute resolution option under IDEA allows parents and school districts to resolve disagreements through a neutral third party without a formal hearing, and its results are legally binding?

Accepted Answer

Mediation

Answer

Mediation is a voluntary, confidential process facilitated by a trained mediator, and any agreement reached is legally binding on both parties.

Question 2

A Minnesota student with a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) returns to school after hospitalization. The IEP team is revising the IEP. Which factor is most critical to address given the nature of TBI?

Accepted Answer

Fluctuating cognitive and behavioral functioning that may change over time

Answer

TBI often results in variable and changing cognitive, physical, and behavioral needs, so the IEP must be responsive to evolving functioning levels.

Question 3

A parent files a state complaint with the Minnesota Department of Education alleging the district failed to implement the IEP. Within how many calendar days must MDE issue a written decision?

Accepted Answer

60 days

Answer

Under IDEA, the state educational agency must resolve a state complaint and issue a written decision within 60 calendar days of receiving the complaint.

Question 4

When determining eligibility for a student suspected of having a Specific Learning Disability (SLD), which method is explicitly prohibited as the sole criterion in Minnesota?

Accepted Answer

A severe discrepancy between IQ and achievement scores as the only measure

Answer

IDEA 2004 prohibits states from requiring the IQ-achievement discrepancy model as the only criterion for SLD identification, though it may still be used.

Question 5

A student with a visual impairment receives orientation and mobility (O&M) training. Under IDEA, O&M is classified as which type of service?

Accepted Answer

Related service

Answer

Orientation and mobility services are explicitly listed as a related service under IDEA, supporting students with visual impairments in navigating their environment.

(MDE) Minnesota Department of Education Practice Test

(MDE) Minnesota Department of Education Practice Test

MDE Special Education 5