What is a SST?

The SST, Student Study Team, is a regular education function. It’s purpose is to assist the general education teacher meet a student’s needs. A SST usually consists of a principal or designee, a SST chairperson, a referring teacher or classroom teacher, and parent (s). Other members, such as resource specialist, nurse, speech therapist, or student may be invited when appropriate.

The SST process begins when concern is expressed by the student’s parent or general education teacher. These concerns may include academic achievement, attendance, behavior, health, or social problems. The regular education teacher tries and documents interventions. Information about the student is gathered through parent/student questionnaires. The referring teacher collects work samples. Observations of the student in class or nonacademic activities may be made. Screening by speech therapist, nurse, resource specialist, or other appropriate personnel may take place. At the initial SST meeting the student data is reviewed, concerns are identified and prioritized, interventions are reviewed, and additional interventions are discussed. A second SST meeting date is set for a period of 3-6 weeks later. The second SST meeting is held at that time to monitor the results of the interventions and to do further planning to meet student need. If interventions have been successful the general education teacher continues the interventions. If the interventions have not been successful, the SST may refer the student for formal assessment to consider the need for special education services. Students are referred for special education assessment only after the general education resources have been fully utilized and are found to be unable to meet their needs.

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