Child Find: Referral, Evaluation, and Eligibility Determination

Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Laurel Public Schools has an affirmative responsibility to identify, locate, and evaluate children who may have disabilities and who may require special education or related services. This process is known as Child Find.

The Child Find process is designed to identify students who may have educational disabilities and determine whether they qualify for services under IDEA or accommodations under Section 504.

An evaluation may determine that a student is eligible for:

• ·A Section 504 Plan, which provides accommodations that allow a student with a disability equal access to educational opportunities without changing grade-level learning expectations; or
• An Individualized Education Program (IEP) under IDEA, which provides specially designed instruction, related services, accommodations, and, when appropriate, modifications to address the student's unique educational needs.

Laurel Public Schools uses a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) to provide evidence-based instruction and interventions for students experiencing academic, behavioral, or functional difficulties. MTSS helps school teams determine whether a student's challenges are the result of instructional needs or may indicate a suspected disability requiring further evaluation.

While MTSS interventions are an important part of supporting students, they will not be used to delay or deny an evaluation when a disability is suspected. If a disability is suspected, the district will promptly consider a referral for a comprehensive evaluation while interventions may continue, when appropriate.

If you believe your child may have a disability or requires additional educational support, please contact your child's teacher, principal, school counselor, school psychologist, or the Laurel Public Schools Student Services Department. Following a review of available information, the school team may determine one or more of the following:

• Implement or adjust evidence-based interventions through the MTSS process;
• Initiate a comprehensive evaluation to determine eligibility under IDEA and/or Section 504; or
• Continue targeted interventions while conducting a formal evaluation, when appropriate.

Laurel Public Schools is committed to ensuring that every child has access to a free appropriate public education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment and receives the supports necessary to be successful in school.

For additional information regarding Child Find, referrals, or special education services, please contact:

Christina Petersen
Director of Student Services
(406) 628 - 3360 ext. 3311
christina_petersen@laurel.k12.mt.us