They cast the ED net comically broadly:
The student exhibits any of the following characteristics to a degree that adversely affects the child's educational experience.
Any inability to learn which cannot be explained by intellectual factors.
Any inability to build or maintain satisfactory relationships with peers or teacher.
Any inappropriate types of behavior or feelings under normal circumstances.
A general mood of unhappiness or depression.
A tendency to develop anxieties or fears associated with school.
The student is then designated ED and removed entirely from their campus and placed in a "behavior" program. There are no "behavior" related services available outside these designated SDCs... so while an IEP might prevent DD from being booted from the DISTRICT it would immediately cause her the be booted from her SCHOOL.
Moomin, where on earth are you? (rhetorical question if you don't want to answer).
Yes, that list is inappropriate in the extreme. Taking a child who is not ED and lumping them into an ED placement is very damaging.
If you are in the US, your child is entitled to an APPROPRIATE educational placement-- i.e. meeting her needs. You can bring your private professionals to bear on the question of what is appropriate; it has to take all strengths and weaknesses into account. They are not allowed to place her in an inappropriate setting.
In your shoes, I'd find and engage an educational advocate. It helps to have someone who knows the ins and outs to advise you.
Sheesh.
DeeDee
