Referral Services

The Director with the assistance of the Head Teachers is responsible for referring families to appropriate agencies as necessary.  The following steps are to be taken when making referrals:

• A concern that the child may need special services is expressed and documented in the child's record by any staff member.

• The concern is reported to the Director or the head teacher who observes the child, reviews the record and determines what further action needs to be taken.

• The Director or Head Teacher in the child's class documents the course of action decided upon.

• If referral or conference is determined to be necessary the parent is notified verbally of the concern by the Director or Head Teacher.

• During the conference the Director or Head Teacher will recommend any services that might be helpful to the family including their rights under Chapter 766 and the availability of services provided by Early Intervention Programs.

• Assistance in making the referral will be offered (written parental consent must be obtained.)

• A written statement including the following will be provided to the parents:

  1. Reason for recommending referral.
  2. School's observations related to referral.
  3. Steps the staff has taken to accommodate the child's needs.

• The Director or Head Teacher contacts the agency that evaluated the child for assistance in meeting the child's needs at the school (with written parental permission.)

• If the child is found not to be in need or or ineligible for services at that time, his/her progress will be reviewed by the Head Teacher every 3 months to determine if another referral is necessary.

• The following will be documented in the child's record:

  1. The name of the staff member making referral.
  2. The name of the person or agency in the referral.
  3. The reason for the referral.
  4. The staff's observations and steps taken to help.
  5. The date that the parent was contacted.
  6. Parent conference date and results.
  7. Date of referral.
  8. Pertinent information from referral agency.
  9. The child's progress.

• Follow-up with the parent will be done by the Head Teacher.

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