Referral for Special Education Services

A Referral for Special Education Services is a formal request to initiate the process of determining whether a student may be eligible for special education and related services under the IDEA. The referral may be made by a parent, teacher, or other school staff member who suspects that a student may have a disability that is impacting their education. The referral typically includes information about the student’s academic, behavioral, and social-emotional functioning, as well as any interventions or supports that have been tried. Once a referral is made, the school district must respond within a certain timeframe and provide the parent with a notice of their rights and a consent form for an initial evaluation. The referral is an important first step in identifying students who may need additional support and ensuring that they receive appropriate services to address their individual needs.