In Maryland, children three years of age and older who need significant modifications in their educational programs may be eligible for special-education services through their school district. These five steps can help you get started in finding information about the special-education process in Maryland and making the contacts you'll need.
1. Familiarize yourself with the special-education process in Maryland with resources downloadable from the Maryland State Department of Education site, including "Understanding the Evaluation, Eligibility, and Individualized Education Program (IEP) Process in Maryland," and "Building IEPs With Maryland Families: What A Great IDEA," as well as the "Beginning the Process" on the About Special Education section of the Maryland Learning Links site.
2. In Maryland, the process of referring a child from birth through high school for special services is called Child Find. Schools have the responsibility to identify students in need of special-education services, and parents can initiate that process by contacting the Child Find office in your school district or calling one of the local referral numbers on the Child Find brochure and requesting an evaluation.
3. After the referral is made, your child will be evaluated to determine whether he or she is eligible for special-education services. Download a copy of the Notice of Procedural Safeguards to understand your rights throughout the process.
4. If your child is found eligible for special-education services, the school will plan an Individualized Education Program (IEP) for your child. Learn more about IEPs and other special-education terms and offerings from the Special-Education FAQ on this About.com site. Wondering what an IEP looks like? Download a sample from the Montgomery County Public Schools site.
5. During the evaluation and IEP process, and throughout your child's educational career, take advantage of the assistance offered by the Parents Place of Maryland, a parent advocacy organization that offers support and workshops for families of children with special needs.
