Child Find
Child Find
Dear Families and Agencies,
The Sacramento City Unified SELPA is reaching out to inform you about an important initiative called Child Find, which is a critical component of our commitment to ensuring that all children receive the support and services they need to thrive.
What is Child Find?
Child Find is a legal requirement under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) that mandates schools and local education agencies to identify, locate, and evaluate all children with disabilities who may need special education and related services. This includes children from birth through age 21 who are suspected of having disabilities, regardless of the severity of their disability.
Who is Eligible?
Child Find applies to all children who reside within our jurisdiction, including:
- Children enrolled in public, private, or home schools.
- Children who are homeless or wards of the state.
- Children who are advancing from grade to grade but are suspected of having a disability.
How Does Child Find Work?
- Identification and Referral: If you suspect that a child has a disability, you can make a referral to our Child Find program. Referrals can come from parents, teachers, doctors, or any concerned individuals.
- Screening and Evaluation: Once a referral is made, we conduct screenings and comprehensive evaluations to determine if the child has a disability and the nature and extent of special education and related services that the child may need.
- Eligibility Determination: Based on the evaluation results, a team of professionals, including the child鈥檚 parents, determines if the child is eligible for special education services.
- Developing an Individualized Education Program (IEP): If the child is found eligible, an IEP is developed to outline the specific services and supports the child will receive.
Why is Child Find Important?
Early identification and intervention are crucial in providing children with the best possible educational outcomes. By identifying children with disabilities early, we can ensure they receive timely and appropriate services that can significantly enhance their development and learning.
How Can You Help?
We encourage families, community members, and agencies to be vigilant and proactive in identifying children who may have disabilities. If you know a child who might benefit from special education services, please contact our office to make a referral.
If you have any questions about Child Find or need to make a referral, please contact:
Email: SELPA@scusd.edu
Office : 916.643.9163
We are committed to working together with families and the community to support the educational needs of all children. Your involvement is vital to the success of this important initiative.
Thank you for your attention and cooperation.
Sincerely,
Geovanni Linares
SELPA Director
Sacramento City Unified School District