This notice is to inform parents of the child identification, location, screening, and evaluation activities to be conducted throughout the year by the Elk City Public Schools in coordination with the Oklahoma State Department of Education. Personally identifiable information shall be collected and maintained in a confidential manner in carrying out the following activities:
REFERRAL
Preschool children ages 3 to 6 and students enrolled in K-12 who are suspected of having disabilities which may require special education and related services may be referred for screening evaluation through the local school. Elk City Public Schools coordinates with the Sooner Stan Early Intervention Program in referrals for identification and evaluation of infants and toddlers who may be eligible for early intervention services from birth through 2 years of age or for special education and related services beginning at 3 years of age. The Oklahoma Areawide Service Information System (OASIS), through a toll free number (1-800- 426-2747), also provides statewide information and referrals to local schools and other service providers.
SCREENING
Screening activities may include vision, hearing, and health. Other screening may include: review of records and educational history, interviews, observations, and specially developed educational screening instruments.
(1) Educational Screening Educational screening includes accepted procedures for the identification of children who may have special learning needs and may be eligible for special education and related services in accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act ((DEA). Each school district in the State provides educational screening. No child shall be educationally screened without prior notice to the child's parent or legal guardian or whose parent or legal guardian has filed a written objection with the local school district.
(2) Language Screening At the time a student enrolls in Elk City Public Schools. parents are asked to complete a Home Language Survey. The survey is used to identify students who speak a language other than English in 1heir homes. Based on survey information, eligible students will be tested in the areas of oral language, listening, reading, writing, and comprehension. Test scores on the language test will be used to design tutoring programs that assist students with English language acquisition. Parents are provided with a language acquisition progress report on an annual basis.
Evaluation
Evaluation means procedures used in accordance with federal laws and regulations to determine whether a child has a disability and the nature and extent of the special education and related services that the child needs. The term means procedures used selectively with an individual child and does not include basic tests administered or procedures used with all children in a school, grade, or class. Written consent of the parent or legal guardian for such evaluation must be on file with the Elk City Public School District prior to any child receiving an initial evaluation for special education and related services purposes.
For further information, contact Cindy Buckmaster, Director of Special Services, Elk City Public Schools.300 North Boone, Elk City, Oklahoma 73644, or by phone at 580-225-0 I 75.
