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School Age Child Find Process

Within 60 business days of initial enrollment in a public school, every student is scheduled for screening in several areas to ensure that developmental skills are adequate for the learning process. When a student fails a screening or has academic, social/emotional, or behavioral concerns and a disability is not suspected, the parent is informed, and the student may be referred to the Student Support Team (SST)/Intervention Team (IT).

If a parent is concerned about their child's progress in school, he or she should contact the administrator of their child's school to request a meeting with the SST/IT.

Critical Elements of the Student Support Team/Intervention Team

At each school, a group of qualified professionals will problem-solve and develop a Student Support Plan when academic, social/emotional, or behavioral concerns have been identified and a disability is not suspected. The Student Support Team/Intervention Team discusses and ensures the following:

  • Research-based tiered interventions are utilized in the classroom.
  • Student's progress is monitored regularly.
  • Interventions, core instruction, and progress monitoring are implemented with fidelity.
  • If applicable, the SST/IT may refer a child, when a disability is suspected, to the Child Find team for further

Critical Elements of the Child Find Team

When a disability is suspected, the Child Find team, a multidisciplinary team, is responsible for the following:

  • Identification
  • Referral
  • Evaluation
  • Eligibility Determination

Of children who may meet the eligibility criteria for special education services determined by state and federal guidelines.

How long will it take to get services for my child?

When your child is referred for further evaluation, the process is as follows:

  • Your child is evaluated by the educational professionals deemed appropriate to assess the child's needs.
  • The eligibility meeting is held within 60 business days from the receipt of the referral by the special education administrator.
  • If your child is determined to meet the educational disability criteria, an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) will be developed within 30 calendar days of the date of eligibility.
  • Special education services are delivered based on the IEP and should begin soon after the development of the plan and permission is received from you, as the parents.

Need Help?

Contact the administrator of your child's school to request a meeting to discuss your concerns.

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