DCPS Special Education Family Guide
Eligibility Process
At a Glance
If there are concerns that your child may have a disability, the school may recommend an evaluation. This process helps determine if your child needs special education or related services. Once a parent or guardian gives permission, the evaluation must be completed within 60 days.
30 days
60 days
SPECIAL EDUCATION AT A GLANCE
A child is suspected of having a disability.
Child may receive levels of supports throughout the process.
A parent/guardian or someone familiar with the child makes a referral for special education services.
The Individualized Education Program (IEP) team receives the referral, reviews existing student data, and decides whether the child requires additional evaluations.
30 days
The IEP team determines that evaluation is not required at this time and notifies parent/guardian in writing with an explanation.
The IEP team requests written consent from the parent to evaluate and conduct the evaluation. The evaluation will be specifically tailored to the child and may involve observations, interviews, student record review, and/or assessments. The IEP Team meets with parent to share findings.
School monitors support and progress.
The child has a qualifying disability and requires special education services.
The IEP team determines that the child does not have a qualifying disability or does not require special education services.
30 days
60 days
The IEP team creates the IEP.
Parent/guardian provides signed consent for the child's initial provision of services.
School staff implements the IEP within a reasonable time.
Referral
The special education process begins when a verbal or written request for special education services or an evaluation is received. The request can be made by:
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School Staff
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Parents/guardians
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Public agency
A copy of the parent rights and protections is provided to parents; click here to view.
Evaluation
After the school receives the referral, the IEP team meets to discuss the referral and review existing data, including previous assessments. The IEP team includes:
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Parent/guardian
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Child (if appropriate)
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Special education teachers
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General education teachers
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Related service providers
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Other school staff
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Other individuals invited by the parent or school
Eligibility
The IEP team determines whether the student meets the criteria for a disability as defined by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and whether the student needs special education and additional support. The IEP team may discuss whether more assessments are needed and, if necessary, meet again to determine eligibility.
If a student is found eligible for special education services for the first time, the parent/guardian must give consent before the IEP team can develop and provide the IEP and services. If consent is not given, the team cannot move forward with the IEP or special education services.
Individual Education Program (IEP) Development
If the child is eligible for special education services as a child with a disability, the IEP team identifies the student’s needs and creates an IEP. The IEP is a document that describes the child's present levels of performance, annual goals, and the specialized instruction and related services necessary to meet those goals. The IEP also identifies where the student will receive these services, such as in a general education or special education setting. The IEP is the student’s placement.
Annual Review
IEPs must be updated at least once every year through the annual review process.
Reevaluation
Continued eligibility for special education must be decided at least once every three (3) years. This is also called “reevaluation” or “a triennial evaluation.”
Dismissal/Exit
An IEP team determines if your child no longer qualifies as a student with a disability and is no longer eligible for special education and related services.
The Parent’s Role in the IEP Process
As your child's parent/guardian, you play a vital role on the IEP team. Your school must give you any documents that will be used to develop an IEP or reviewed in an eligibility meeting at least five (5) business days before the meeting. This gives you time to review them and prepare for the meeting. You will receive a copy of the IEP after the meeting.
Location of Services (LOS)
The geographical/physical site where the student’s IEP will be implemented.