What does the Stay-Put Provision ensure for a student while parents and a district mediate?

The Stay-Put Provision is a fundamental aspect of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) that ensures a student with a disability remains in their current educational placement while parents and the school district engage in mediation or resolution sessions regarding disputes over the student’s special education services. This provision is critical because it provides stability and continuity in the student's education during a period of uncertainty regarding their services or placement.

By maintaining the student's current placement, the Stay-Put Provision protects the student from being moved to an alternative educational setting without parental consent or due process. This allows the student to continue receiving the supports and services specified in their Individualized Education Program (IEP) while any disagreements are resolved, ensuring that their educational needs are met without interruption.

In contrast, the other options suggest changes to the student’s current situation, such as receiving additional support services, transferring to a different school, or adjusting learning objectives, all of which do not align with the primary purpose of the Stay-Put Provision. The essence of this provision is to provide security and prevent disruption in the student's educational experience during mediation.