Many students have difficulty in school. The difficulties can range from academic to behavioral concerns. A parent has the right to refer his or her child at any time. A school district is obligated to test students that have difficulty in the general education setting. A support system should be in place prior to a referral to ensure success in other ways.
Most school districts have a three tier process in place better known as Response to Intervention (RTI) to assist or help the student be successful in the general education classroom. The tier process includes tutorials, remediation, compensatory services, accommodations as well as modifications to assist the student in the intervention process.
If the student is still unsuccessful and has a difficult time after all resources have been exhausted, a referral should be made. The student assistance team (SAT) meets periodically to discuss the student’s progress. A member of this team/committee can be the administrator (usually the principal or assistant principal), the teacher(s), the counselor, and the parent. Other committee members can be a member if deemed necessary.
A Full Individual Evaluation (FIE) is done in a timely manner after an assessment has been made. The Admission, Review, and Dismissal Committee meets to review all pertinent information such as parent and teacher information, medical information, and evaluation results from an assessment specialist.
If the student does meet eligibility criteria the committee determines placement in the least restrictive environment for academics and/or behavior. All decisions should be child-centered and cannot be based on one person’s point of view.
A student is protected and has rights under IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act). For more information on this topic, please contact your local school district, regional service center, or Texas Education Agency.
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