Delay tactics refer to actions or processes that slow down decision-making or the implementation of supports, often without improving the outcome for the student. In education disputes or advocacy, delay tactics can occur when schools repeatedly postpone decisions, request additional meetings, ask for unnecessary documentation, or defer action to future reviews instead of addressing an immediate need. Sometimes delays occur because schools are trying to gather information or follow internal procedures. However, delays can also function as a form of gatekeeping. When accommodations, safety measures, or educational supports are postponed, the student continues to experience the barrier or harm the support was meant to address. For families, delay tactics can be especially burdensome. Parents may be asked to attend numerous meetings, provide repeated explanations, or wait for assessments and approvals before any meaningful change occurs. This can consume significant time and emotional energy while the child’s situation remains unresolved. In situations where a student’s access to education or safety is affected, schools have a responsibility to act promptly and proportionately. Gathering information should not prevent reasonable interim supports from being implemented while longer-term decisions are being made. Also see bandwidth taxation or capacity theft.