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Child Find and Referral

Child Find and Referral

What to do if you suspect your child has a disability?

Orting School District is committed to reaching all students ages 0-21 years old with a suspected disability for the purpose of locating, evaluating, and identifying students residing within our school district boundaries who may require accommodations, special education and related services, or other supports as a result of their disability. Parents, family members, district staff, and other community members who suspect a student has a disability should communicate their concerns to their school team and can make a special education referral.

Timelines for Referral, Initial Evaluation, and Initial Individualized Education Program (IEP)

A request for special education evaluation may not always result in an evaluation. The referral team will review existing data to determine if there is a suspected disability and if there is a suspicion that the disability is having an adverse educational impact. Results of a referral may be other school-based interventions, the development of a 504 plan or a special education evaluation. The team has 25 school days to decide what next steps are necessary and to communicate those to you.

Child Find Timeline

Children Ages 0-3

A Step Ahead of Pierce county supports families of infants and toddlers (birth up to 3 years of age) with special needs by enhancing their development and relationships both at home and in their community. The District works with A Step Ahead to transition eligible children into the school district's developmental preschool program at age 3. If you have an infant or toddler with special needs, please contact A Step Ahead at (253) 471-2727 or fill out their Early Intervention Referral Form.

Children Ages 3-5

Orting School district provides free developmental screenings to identify children with delays or disabilities ages 3 to 5 years old who may be in need of early intervention or special education services. Screenings are conducted September through May.

Concerns might include speech/language, learning and understanding, coordination and movement, social skills, self-help skills (feeding, dressing, toileting), behavior management, vision or hearing. Children already identified with disabilities should also be screened if not receiving early intervention/special education services.

The earlier intervention is started, the greater the chance of improving outcomes for the children we serve. If you have concerns or questions about your child’s development, please call Student Support Services at 360-872-4036 to schedule a screening.

If your family is in a temporary living situation, you may contact the district where you are staying to attend a screening.

School Age Children (ages 5-21)

Please contact your child’s teacher, counselor, school psychologist, or building administrator to communicate your concern. If the child is currently being homeschooled, a referral can be made by contacting Student Support Services. A referral for special education must be made in writing, but support is available to help you complete a referral if you need assistance. A written referral can also be made by completing the request for special education evaluation form below and sending it to the school via email or in person. This form is not required - an email or any written communication making this request is acceptable. This form is available in multiple languages.

 

Contact

Executive Director for Student Support Services
Jennifer Westover
(360) 893-6500 x4027
 
Executive Assistant for Student Support Services and for
Records Requests:
Katrina Mang
Phone:(360) 893-6500 x4036
Fax:  (360) 893-4367
 
Student Support Services Secretary
Stephanie Satiacum
Phone: (360) 893-6500 x4034
Fax: 360-893-4367