Specific Learning Disability

Determination for Special Education Eligibility

Each school district and public school academy in Michigan is required to publicly post the process it uses to determine the existence of a Specific Learning Disability (SLD) for Special Education eligibility. Consistent with the requirement, North Muskegon School District reports the following:

• For determination of a SLD, a Pattern of Strengths and Weaknesses (PSW) is currently used in all buildings, at all grade levels. In order for a child to be eligible, s/he must meet the following criterion as part of the determination process.
• Exhibits a pattern of strengths and weaknesses in performance, achievement, or both, relative to age, Michigan grade-level standards, or intellectual development, that is determined to be relevant to the identification of a specific learning disability.
• Assessment that addresses each of the areas above must be conducted to meet the federal requirement for a full and individual evaluation.