Prerequisites for Making CSE Referrals in Schools
When you first notice signs of struggle, whether it be social, emotional, behavioral, or academic difficulties, communicate with your child's teacher. Ask about MTSS/RTI. This will begin a discussion regarding the kinds of support services your child may already be receiving or may be eligible for. You can meet with your child's educational team, including the school principal, to discuss building-level interventions.
Parents always maintain the right to request, in writing, an evaluation to determine eligibility for special education supports or services. School personnel have access to an integrated and systematic process for providing preventative interventions prior to requesting specialized evaluations via our MTSS/RTI teams. As a general principle, students should be given the well-documented Tier 1, 2, and 3 interventions of the RTI process prior to being referred for a more in-depth CSE evaluation.
Procedural Safe Guards Notice: Rights for Parents of Children with Disabilities, Ages 3-21
Special Education in New York State for Children Ages 3–21 A Parent’s Guide
NYS Commissioner Regulation Part 200 & Part 201
FAQ's
Parent Request for evaluation:
Parents can write a letter or email (mbraren@rondout.k12.ny.us) requesting a referral to CSE.
Letters can be addressed to:
Meg Braren: Director of PPS
PO BOX 9
Accord NY 12404
Referrals that have not gone through the RTI process will be:
Reviewed by Director of Special Education who will:
o Notify Principal
o Review if any RTI interventions have been tried
o Ask if the team have concerns
o Contact parent and request meeting to discuss concerns
Withdrawal of Referral:
Principal and CSE Chairperson may request a meeting with the parent and student if appropriate, to determine whether the student would benefit from additional general education support services as an alternative to special education
If it is agreed that the referral will be withdrawn, this must be documented in writing, including alternative interventions to be tried, data to be collected, the duration of the intervention and time to review progress.