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 Myths and Truths
Myth #3
The major focus of RtI should be identifying students with Specific Learning Disabilities (LD). RtI can be used to “get rid of” those students who are not really LD, but who were simply not achieving for other reasons. Read the Truth
If the primary focus of RtI is simply eliminating students who are not deserving of special education, there is a risk of missing the huge benefit RtI provides in prevention of disability. IDEA 2004 is clear in indicating that no single criterion can be used for special education eligibility, and most definitions of LD view response to appropriate instruction as necessary, but not sufficient. Data collected during RtI implementation can be used as one source of information when making eligibility decisions, but identification is an end product of RtI, not the primary purpose. In some states, RtI is viewed as part of the identification criteria for all students considered for special education, not just LD, which is consistent with the IDEA 2004 statute. Bill East, Director, National Association of State Directors of Special Education NASDSE, Myths About Response to Intervention (RtI), May 2006
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