SD is a State-determined condition in which disproportionality in the identification, educational placement, or discipline of children with disabilities within an LEA exceeds the State's threshold established under the standard methodology and its flexibilities found in 34 CFR, §300.647 (see the Texas Significant Disproportionality Crosswalk). Texas uses a risk-ratio threshold of 2.5. 

Under 20 U.S.C 1418 (d) and 34 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) §300.646, states must provide for the collection and examination of data to annually determine whether significant disproportionality based on race or ethnicity is occurring in the State and local education agencies (LEAs) with respect to three areas. 

SD Year 3 Designations

Notification of Significant Disproportionality Year 3 letters were sent to LEAs on October 9, 2025.

If an LEA is found to be SD in one or more of the SD categories as published in the Results Driven Accountability (RDA) report for three years in a row, LEAs are required to:

• Review (and, if appropriate) revise policies, procedures, and practices;

• Reserve the maximum amount of funds to be used for early intervening services; and

• Report on the revision of policies, procedures, and practices.

Check out TEA's Texas Significant Disproportionality Updates and FAQs for more information!