In Connecticut, school districts are responsible for identifying children from birth to age twenty-one who may qualify for special education services. This requirement is part of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), which applies to all children with disabilities residing in the state. The IDEA encompasses not only children who are homeless or wards of the state but also those attending private schools, regardless of the severity of their disability. This obligation is commonly referred to as “child find,” and once a child with a disability is identified, the school district must undertake an evaluation to comply with IDEA mandates.
Initiating Special Education Referrals
The initial step in determining eligibility for special education services in Connecticut is making a referral. This involves submitting a written request for evaluation of a child who is suspected of having a disability that may require special education and related services. Parents who suspect their child may have a disability and is over the age of three can submit this request to the director of special education in their school district. When a referral comes from someone other than the child's parent, such as a teacher or school administrative staff, the parent must be notified in writing.
Who Can Make Referrals?
In Connecticut, several parties are authorized to make a referral for evaluation. These include the student themselves if they are 18 or older, parents or guardians, state or local educational agencies, and individuals from other agencies—such as physicians or social workers—who have obtained parental permission.
In contrast, New York follows a process where students suspected of having a disability are referred to a multidisciplinary team known as the Committee on Special Education or the Committee on Preschool Special Education. This Committee is responsible for organizing an evaluation of the student's abilities and needs. Based on the evaluation results, it determines the student's eligibility for special education services and programs.
Contact Us
If you have any questions regarding special education referrals in Connecticut, or wish to consult an attorney regarding a legal matter, please contact Joseph C. Maya and the attorneys at Maya Murphy, P.C. at (203) 221-3100 or Jmaya@mayalaw.com to arrange a free initial consultation.
