How do parents access special education services?

Each school follows a systematic process for identifying students with disabilities. Referrals for evaluation come from a variety of sources. Parents, teachers and others can refer a student to the school-based assistance team. This team reviews the student's current progress, observes the student in the classroom and talks with parents and teachers, then develops a set of interventions designed to address the student's needs. If these interventions are not successful, the team may refer the student to an Individualized Education Program (IEP) team of parents, teachers and administrators. The IEP team meets, discusses areas of concern and determines a course of action that may include a battery of assessments. Using North Carolina policies for Exceptional Children, the IEP team uses the assessment information to determine eligibility. Services are based on the needs of the student, not on a category.

To contact a member of the Exceptional Children staff, click here.