Child welfare social workers are not mandatory IEP team members, unless the IEP team is meeting for a manifestation determination review (“MDR”) to discuss a disciplinary change in placement, such as an expulsion recommendation.[1] See Chapter 8: Information on Discipline of Students with Disabilities.
A child welfare social worker is otherwise not required to be invited to or attend IEP meetings. However, they may attend other IEP meetings if the school district or the child’s educational rights holder believe the social worker has special expertise or knowledge regarding the foster youth.[2]