Qualifying Process
Qualifying for Speech/Language Therapy Support
-----------STEP #1: SCREENING------------
If a teacher or parent is concerned about a child’s communication skills, s/he should contact the Speech/Language Pathologist (SLP) for a screening.
The SLP will determine the nature of the communication concern and then conduct a screening, with parent approval (see below).* This may include classroom observation.
If a student does not pass the screening, a full evaluation may be recommended.
------------STEP #2: FORMAL EVALUATION------------
This step begins the formal process to determine if the student is eligible for, and in need of, Speech/Language Support. This is a specialized service, meaning that it falls under the umbrella of the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA). This affords parents and students rights and protections under the special education law. Parents are provided with a copy of these rights at the beginning of this process.
Signed parental permission will be requested for an evaluation. The parent may accept or refuse this recommendation by signing and returning the evaluation permission.
Once a parent returns the signed form to accept testing, the school district has 60 days (excluding summer) to complete testing and provide report to parents.
Parents are invited to a meeting and results are discussed together.
------------STEP #3: QUALIFYING------------
If the student is eligible for, and in need of the service, an Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) will be developed outlining the Speech/Language Support. This plan describes the specially designed instruction (speech or language therapy) that the student requires. Additional services, such as colloboration with teachers and modifications to help the student in the classroom, are also documented on this annual plan. Parents are encouraged to participate in this process.
------------STEP #4: SPEECH/LANGUAGE SUPPORT CASELOAD------------
IEP’s last a calendar year unless otherwise specified. That means if you meet in May 28, 2019 the IEP will last until May 27, 2020. Once enrolled in the program, students will receive ongoing support until their needs change and they are formally dismissed from the program. Parents are invited back to an IEP meeting at least once a year while their child remains in the program.
Student Progress Reports towards IEP goals are sent home around the time of report cards, three times a year.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If you have any questions regarding this process, please contact Lisa Hahnlen.
*Kindergarten students who have been identified for a fall “rescreening” of communication skills will automatically be rescreened.
New kindergarten students who move in to the district may also have a full kindergarten screening administered, as part of the school district’s protocol.