The most recent reauthorization of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA ’97) mandates changes in the way students with disabilities are assessed and served. Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBAs) and Plans have been mandated in disciplinary concerns for students served under IDEA. Although FBAs are mandated for these disciplinary issues, they can be useful tools to serve any students with behavioral or learning concerns. Below is a list of some of the possible situations in which an FBA may assist in better serving students and ultimately educators:

	Discipline issues with students served in special education in accordance with IDEA ’97
	Discipline issues with students served in general education classes
	Discipline issues with students being referred to the Student Support Team (Georgia) or other pre-referral intervention team
	Issues involving learning or achievement problems which may stem from behavioral issues
	Situations involving student lack of social skills

The ultimate goal of an FBA is to document and analyze student behavior which is inappropriate and/or hindering learning or functioning, then design interventions to address any concerns or reinforce positive/productive behaviors.