The Special Education Process

Summary

This video provides a comprehensive overview of the process for accessing special education services for children facing learning difficulties. It outlines five key steps: referral for evaluation, individual assessment of needs, determining eligibility, creating an individualized education program (IEP), and the annual review or re-evaluation process. The script emphasizes the importance of parental involvement and highlights the rights under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), ensuring children with disabilities receive a free appropriate public education. The video aims to inform and empower parents in navigating the special education process.

Takeaways

• 😀 If your child is struggling in school, it's important to talk to their teacher or other professionals to identify potential support options.
• 😀 If classroom supports don't help, it may be time to consider special education services.
• 😀 Step 1: You can request an evaluation of your child's abilities by making a referral to the Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE) or Committee on Special Education (CSE).
• 😀 Step 2: The school will conduct an individual evaluation to assess the child's needs and determine whether special education services are necessary.
• 😀 Step 3: After the evaluation, the CPSE or CSE will meet to decide if your child is eligible for special education services.
• 😀 Step 4: If eligible, an Individualized Education Program (IEP) will be created to outline the child's needs, support services, and academic goals.
• 😀 Step 5: The IEP is reviewed annually to track progress and adjust goals, with a formal re-evaluation taking place every three years.
• 😀 Parents are strongly encouraged to be actively involved in each step of the process, as they play a critical role in their child's education.
• 😀 The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), enacted in 1975, ensures that children with disabilities receive a free and appropriate public education.
• 😀 8.4% of students receive special education services under IDEA, demonstrating its widespread impact.
• 😀 The IEP document is a key tool for ensuring that the child’s needs are met, and it provides detailed goals and supports for the school year.

Q & A

What should I do if I notice my child is struggling in school?

If you notice your child is having difficulties in school that are affecting their learning, it's important to talk to their teacher or other school professionals to discuss potential support options.

When should I consider seeking special education services for my child?

You should consider special education services if classroom supports have already been tried, and your child still faces significant learning difficulties.

How can I start the process for getting special education services for my child?

You can start the process by requesting an evaluation of your child's abilities and needs. This is done by making a referral and writing to the Committee on Preschool Special Education or the Committee on Special Education.

Who is involved in the decision-making process for special education services?

The decision-making process involves the child's parents, special education teachers, regular education teachers, and other professionals who work with the child.

What happens during the individual evaluation of my child?

The school will conduct an evaluation of your child's abilities and needs to determine whether special education services are necessary.

What is the purpose of the Committee on Special Education (CSE)?

The Committee on Special Education (CSE) meets after the child's evaluation to decide which special education services would be most beneficial for the child.

What is an IEP, and why is it important?

An IEP, or Individualized Education Program, is a document that outlines your child's specific educational needs, the supports and services they will receive, and the goals for their academic year. It ensures that the child receives tailored support.

How often is the IEP reviewed, and when is a re-evaluation necessary?

The IEP must be reviewed at least once a year to assess progress. Additionally, the child must be formally re-evaluated at least every three years, though the IEP can be reviewed at any time.

What is the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)?

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a law enacted in 1975 that ensures children with disabilities receive a free, appropriate public education, similar to their peers without disabilities.

How important is parental involvement in the special education process?

Parental involvement is crucial in the special education process. Parents play an important role in every step, from referral to the review of the IEP, and are strongly encouraged to participate actively.