Starting K in MCPS next school year, have private eval recommending IEP

[Anonymous]

We just got a private eval recommending an IEP for our child who is starting K in MCPS this coming fall.

What is the best approach to get the IEP? Do we request it through Child Find or ask the school directly since we have the private eval?

[Anonymous]

If you want it at the start of school then Child Find.

[Anonymous]

You write to the elementary school and request an IEP meeting. It is too late for Child Find.

I don't know what is in the eval, but be aware that when you request an evaluation through Child Find, your child can be delayed in any area (behavioral, social, etc...). However, now that your child is an incoming elementary schooler, there must be an educational need which can sometimes be more challenging to prove with preschool children.

I did go through this process for my own child (same timing- started in Feb) and my DS did get approved for the IEP. The school psychologist ended up visiting his preschool and that helped to show the need- but prior to the observation they were ready to just say no.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:You write to the elementary school and request an IEP meeting. It is too late for Child Find.

I don't know what is in the eval, but be aware that when you request an evaluation through Child Find, your child can be delayed in any area (behavioral, social, etc...). However, now that your child is an incoming elementary schooler, there must be an educational need which can sometimes be more challenging to prove with preschool children.

I did go through this process for my own child (same timing- started in Feb) and my DS did get approved for the IEP. The school psychologist ended up visiting his preschool and that helped to show the need- but prior to the observation they were ready to just say no.

That’s not correct. OP has until April 5 for Child Find.

[Anonymous]

Wait till child is enrolled in K, and give the school the report. Child find may not help as the child is close to or already 5 or that was our experience.

[Anonymous]

Please don’t listen to those saying wait till K. (Public early childhood special ed teacher here)

First, a private report recommending an IEP does not guarantee an IEP. You still need to go through the special education process in your district, and at this point, Child Find.

Call Child Find tomorrow. MCPS Child Find does have a cutoff for rising Ks in the spring (April 5), after which you work with your zoned school. Just refer now. Share any relevant info prior to this first screening meeting (eg private report, any forms from your child’s teacher, etc). They will walk you through the process from there if additional testing is needed, etc. If you start the process ASAP, you can likely get a plan in place prior to the end of this school year (June).

You don’t mention why the IEP was recommended or what your child’s needs are, but the transition to K will be much better if your child can start with any necessary supports in place. If they end up with an IEP, it can always be adjusted after the school year begins. Good luck!