Special education is tailored to meet the needs of students with disabilities. The services and supports one child receives may be very different from what another child receives. It’s all about individualization. What’s important is giving kids the resources they need to make progress in school.
The IEP is often described as the cornerstone of special education. That’s because this legally binding document details a student’s annual learning goals as well as the special services and supports the school will provide to help him meet those goals. Before your child can receive special education services, you and the school must complete several steps. See below: FOUR KEY STEPS!
"Special Education: An Introductory Guide for Parents." understood.org . Accessed 24 Jul. 2020.
STEP 1: STUDENT REFERRAL
Referral for evaluation: When your child is struggling and a learning or thinking difference is suspected, you or the school can ask for an evaluation. Your request may be accepted or denied. Either way, the school must explain its decision to you. The school can’t evaluate your child unless you give written permission.
STEP 2: EVALUATION
Evaluation: If the school agrees to evaluate your child, the school psychologist and other specialists will give your child various tests. They also may observe him in the classroom. The evaluation will identify whether your child has one of the 13 disabilities covered by the IDEA. The evaluation will also provide information about his educational needs.
STEP 3: ELIGIBILITY
Determination of eligibility: After the evaluation, a special team from the school meets with you to discuss whether your child has a disability and if it affects his ability to learn. (If your child doesn’t meet the requirements for an IEP, he may qualify for a 504 plan, which can provide many of the same accommodations and services.)
STEP 4: IEP DEVELOPMENT
Developing the IEP: If your child is eligible for special education, his IEP team creates a plan to meet his needs. You are an equal member of this team and play a very important role. You know and understand your child better than anyone else on the team. Your insights can help ensure that your child receives the services and supports he needs to succeed in school.