Child Find is the obligation of every school district to identify, locate and evaluate all children between the ages of birth and 21 who may need special education and related services. This includes children with disabilities attending private schools.

Anyone - a parent, teacher, student, nurse, doctor, social worker - may request that a child be considered for special education. Most professionals, such as doctors, dentists, mental health workers, counselors and others must notify the State Superintendent of Public Instruction of any child who appears to be disabled and not receiving special education.

SIGN OF A DISABILITY

Signs of a disability may include slowness in learning, not seeing or hearing well, a serious illness or emotional problems.

If you suspect your child has a disability, contact your local school and request an evaluation. If your child is under 5 years, the school will refer you to your local Referral and Evaluation Agency.

Document the date you make the request for an evaluation and follow-up with special education staff after a reasonable time, if not contacted.

See Model Letter 1 and Model Letter 2.