Referral for Special Education Evaluation
Purpose
This form will help parents, district staff, public agencies, or other people with information about a student to request a special education evaluation (also called a “special education referral”). This form is not required – any written request for evaluation is valid. The district may request the Parent Referral Form to be completed following a verbal email or other written request. It is important to note that the 25-day timeline described below starts as soon as the request is received, whether or not this form is used.
Process
Once the district receives a written request for evaluation in any form/format, the district has 25 school days to review information about the student, including school records, medical records, and information from parents, and decide whether to evaluate the student for special education eligibility. If the district decides to evaluate the student for special education eligibility, it must obtain written and informed consent from the parent prior to beginning the initial evaluation. See below for a timeline flow chart.
Timelines for Referral, Initial Evaluation, and Initial Individualized Education Program (IEP)