Overview of Special Education Referral

Parents, district staff, public agencies, or other people with information about a student can request a special education evaluation (also called a “special education referral”). Any written request for evaluation is valid. Districts may follow up a verbal, email, or other written request to complete the Special Education Referral Form, but may not require the referrer to complete the form prior to considering the student for evaluation. It is important to note that the 25-day timeline described below starts as soon as a written request is received, whether or not this form is used.

Process
Once the district receives a written request for evaluation in any form/format, they have 25 school days to review information about the student, including school and medical records and information from the parent(s), and decide whether to evaluate the student for special education eligibility. If the district decides to evaluate, it must obtain written and informed consent from the parent(s) prior to beginning the initial evaluation.

Forms
MTSS Intervention Flowchart 
Student Study Team Input Form 
Referral for Special Education Evaluation