Specific Learning Disability (SLD) Determination 

Each local educational agency and public school academy in Michigan is required to publicly post the process used to determine the existence of a Specific Learning Disability (SLD).

Consistent with this requirement, Whitehall District Schools reports the following: Whitehall District Schools conducts evaluations that focus on obtaining information from a variety of sources to consider the presence of a Pattern of Strengths and Weaknesses (PSW), A critical piece of evidence is that a student’s scores fall substantially below national and state norms on a specific academic skill (basic reading, reading fluency, reading comprehension, mathematics calculation, mathematics problem solving, written expression), while most other skills are shown to be developing adequately. The language skills of listening comprehension and oral expression are also included within the rules covering SLD*. Other important factors must also be considered, including an analysis of the student’s skills in other areas. This could include academic strengths, behavior, language or cognition

This data will also be used to provide the assurance that the pattern of strengths and weaknesses used within the SLD eligibility determination is not primarily the result of: a visual, hearing, or motor disability; a cognitive impairment; an emotional impairment; cultural factors; environmental or economic disadvantage; lack of attendance; or limited English proficiency. Additionally, the district must ensure that the underachievement is not due to a lack of adequate instruction. An analysis of progress monitoring data over time and data from state and local assessments can be used to provide assurances of this.

Multi–Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) A Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) is a systemic, continuous improvement framework in which data-based problem-solving and decision making is practiced across all levels of the educational system for supporting students.