Full Answer Section

If a child is identified through Child Find as needing further evaluation, the school district must provide that evaluation at no cost to the family. The evaluation should be conducted by a team of qualified professionals who will determine whether the child has a disability and, if so, what type of special education services they need.

Once a child has been found eligible for special education services, the school district must develop an Individualized Education Program (IEP) for them. The IEP is a written plan that outlines the child’s specific educational goals and the services that will be provided to help them achieve those goals. The IEP must be reviewed and updated at least once a year to ensure that it is still meeting the child’s needs.

Both general education teachers and special education teachers play an important role in ensuring that children with special needs receive a FAPE. General education teachers are responsible for providing the core instruction for all students, including those with disabilities. They must be aware of the needs of their students with disabilities and make accommodations as needed. Special education teachers are responsible for providing specialized instruction and support to students with disabilities. They work with general education teachers to develop and implement the IEPs for their students.

Here are some specific Child Find strategies that can be used to ensure that children with special needs are identified:

• Universal screening: This is a process of screening all children for potential learning and developmental delays. This can be done using a variety of tools, such as standardized assessments, teacher observations, and parent questionnaires.
• Referrals: Parents, teachers, and other professionals can refer children for further evaluation if they have concerns about the child’s development or learning.
• Collaboration: Schools should collaborate with community agencies and organizations that work with children with disabilities to identify children who may need services.
• Public awareness: Schools should raise awareness about the importance of early identification and intervention for children with disabilities. This can be done through parent education, community outreach, and other activities.

By following these strategies, schools can ensure that all children with disabilities are identified and receive the services they need to succeed.