The Special Education Referral Process

The process for providing special education services begins with something called “referral.” Either the school district or the parent/guardian may initiate this process. It begins with a written request for an evaluation to be made to the school district, usually to the Director of Special Education Services. This request can be made at any time for any student.

The school’s Child Study Team (CST) must screen the child within 20 days of receiving the written request for the evaluation.

If the CST determines that a full evaluation is necessary, a meeting will be scheduled to secure written parental consent and to determine the formal scope of the evaluation. A 90-day clock begins ticking when this consent is made.

Evaluations are conducted and results are shared with the parent. Eligibility for special education services is also determined at this stage.

If a child is eligible for special education services, the CST (which now includes the parent/guardian as a full member), develops the Individualized Education Program (IEP) for the student.

Parents must sign consent before the initial IEP is implemented and the child is given an appropriate placement.

If at any point in the above process, a parent/guardian disagrees with a decision, they have a legal right to request State Mediation and/or Due Process.