Basics of Special Education: Referral for Consideration for Special Ed. Services

Referral for Consideration for Special Education Services

Evaluation

What is the timeline for getting a child evaluated for a disability?

Previous guidance stated that the full evaluation process had to be completed within a reasonable time period. Now the full evaluation process must be completed within 60 calendar days once the parent has given consent for the evaluation, unless the school district has a shorter than 60 calendar day timeline policy.

Are the exceptions to the 60 calendar day timeline?

Exceptions to the timeline exist if the child moves from one district or state to another district or state after the evaluation was requested, or if the parent repeatedly fails or refuses to make the child available for the evaluation. Under those circumstances, districts are required to make sufficient progress to ensure that a timely evaluation is conducted. It is recommended that the school district document efforts to complete the evaluation.

Consent to Evaluate

When the General Intervention Team (problem solving team) decides to consider the need for special education services parental consent must be obtained to ensure the procedural rights of the parent are followed. Consent means:

Parent was fully informed of all information relevant to the activities for which the consent is sought.
Parent agrees in writing.
Parent has been informed in native language or mode of communication.
Parent understands the right to revoke permission can occur at any time.

Refusal

If the parent refuses consent the local district or AEA can continue to pursue the evaluation through a preappeal, mediation or impartial due process hearing.

Individualized Evaluation

Assessment in all areas related to the suspected disability.
Assessment must be individualized, no group assessments.
Assessments must be non-discriminatory.
Evaluation in native language or mode of communication.
A variety of strategies and tools used including input provided by the parents.

Entitlement

IDEA Web Site

Many AEA's in Iowa use a noncategorial designation for all individuals. Individuals with a disability and who are entitled to services are referred to as Entitled Individuals. The figure below illustrates the comparison between entitled individual under a noncategorical designation and categorical designations as defined under IDEA.

Federal Categories
ED = Emotional Disturbance
MR = Mental Retardation
SLD = Specific Learning Disability
HI = Hearing Impairment
VI = Visual Impairment
SL = Speech or Language Impairment
AUT = Autism
TBI = Traumatic Brain Injury
OHI = Other Health Impairment
OI = Orthopedic Impairment

Source: AEA 2 Special Education Procedures Manual

The Basics of Special Education