Returning to School
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Individual Education Plans
OBTAINING A REFERRAL TO SPECIAL EDUCATION
Many students experiencing challenges from brain injuries will need special education programs to meet these needs. Additional supports such as therapeutic reaction, social work services and rehabilitation services may be required, as well.
In order to receive special education services, students must be referred. Parents, teachers and physicians may refer a child to the special services committee of the school. For example, a family may request in writing that their child be evaluated to determine if she/he has special problems that may be causing learning problems in school. For a child with a brain injury, the earlier the process can start, the better.
Typically, school districts have standard prereferral and referral procedures that are overseen by a committee or team. The prereferral and referral processes differ from state to state and should be discussed with the special education liaison assigned to meet the needs of the child.
It is up to the school district liaison to arrange for a team meeting to discuss the prereferral and referral process. Those present at this meeting should include:
- the family
- the child (if appropriate)
- the director of special education
- the school's principal, special education teachers and nurse
- a vocational rehabilitation specialist
- a psychologist
- a social worker
- others as needed
Developing the IEP
Additional Questions to Consider