Access Special Education Services: Referral and Evaluation
Establishing Special Education Services for Students
A referral is the first step toward receiving special education services. Once a student has been referred, a team at the student’s school will decide whether or not to evaluate the student within 25 school days.
The evaluation determines if a student is eligible for special education services, and what those services might be.
Special Education services are provided to qualified students regardless of enrollment status in Seattle Public Schools. Referral or qualification for services does not automatically enroll a student in the district. There is a separate process to enroll your student in Seattle Public Schools.
How to submit a referral
Referral is the first step leading towards Special Education services. All referrals are made in writing. They are made either to the district or through a students existing school, depending on their enrollment status in Seattle Public Schools.
Each child is a member of a community supporting their growth and learning. This community is comprised of parents or guardians, extended family, teachers, medical professionals, community members, and/or agencies. Any concerned member of a child’s community can refer them to the district for evaluation.
How to submit a referral for a student currently enrolled in SPS
If your student is already enrolled in Seattle Public Schools (SPS), communicate with the staff at your student’s school to begin the referral process. A good place to start is your student’s teacher or a building administrator. If you need help making a referral, please contact us.
All referrals must be made in writing, but can occur at any time. If necessary, we can work with families to accept verbal referrals.
How to submit a referral for a student not enrolled in SPS
Child Find is an Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) mandate which seeks to locate all children with disabilities who would benefit from public services. Child Find provides a referral point for children not enrolled in Seattle Public Schools.
If your family is living in a temporary situation, you may contact the district where you are currently staying for a screening.
What happens after a referral is submitted?
The student’s parent/guardian will be contacted when a referral is received. The school-based team must make a decision within 25 school days about whether or not to evaluate the student for eligibility.
During the referral period, existing records are gathered for review. Materials that may be used to determine whether to evaluate a student, include:
- Medical, therapy, or school records
- Report cards or other progress reports
- Teacher, parent, or provider information
- Other assessments
Parents/guardians must give consent before any records not internal to Seattle Public Schools are shared with the district.
Evaluation and Placement
An evaluation will be scheduled if the district finds sufficient evidence to support the decision to evaluate the student, and if the student’s parent/guardian gives written consent. The results from the evaluation are used to determine eligibility for special education services.
Placement defines the setting, intensity, and instructional content of each student’s services. Learn more about placement and primary service types.