A referral in school is when a teacher or school staff member sends a student to a specialist to get extra help. This could be for learning, behavior, or health issues that make it hard for the kid to do well in school
A referral in school is when a teacher or school staff member sends a student to a specialist to get extra help. This could be for learning, behavior, or health issues that make it hard for the kid to do well in school
Who can start a referral process?
Teachers, school staff, or parents can start a referral process if they notice a student is struggling academically, socially, or emotionally and needs extra support.
What happens after a referral form is submitted?
After a referral form is submitted, a school support team reviews it and works together to create a plan that addresses the student’s needs, which may include additional resources or services.
How long does it take for a student to receive help after a referral is submitted?
The time it takes for a student to receive help after a referral is submitted can vary depending on the school and the student’s specific needs, but schools generally aim to provide support as soon as possible.
A referral in school is the formal process of requesting an evaluation to determine if a student has a disability and requires specialized support services. The referral initiates a comprehensive assessment by a multidisciplinary team to gather information about the student’s academic performance, behavior, and overall functioning. This evaluation helps determine the student’s eligibility for special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
A referral for special education is used to identify students who may have a disability and need additional support to make progress in school. Some examples of how referrals are used include:
| Reason for Referral | Possible Outcomes |
|---|---|
| Academic difficulties | Identification of learning disabilities, development of IEP with specialized instruction |
| Behavioral concerns | Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA), Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) |
| Speech and language delays | Speech and language evaluation, speech therapy services |
By using referrals to identify students’ unique needs, schools can provide targeted interventions and support to help children with disabilities thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
This post was originally published on March 29, 2023. It was updated on May 29, 2024.
