KPS Special Education Questions and Answers

1. When is the department open?
   The department is open from 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m..
2. What is special education?
   Special education is a service for students with unique educational needs. It is a service, not a place!
3. For what areas of need does special education provide service?
   There are 14 defined areas of special education needs defined by state and federal law. Each area has specific criteria that a student must meet before he or she is identified as eligible to receive services/support.
4. I think my child needs special education support, who should I talk to about my concerns?
   Concerns about a child are reported to classroom teachers or the psychologist assigned to the school the student attends. Parents/guardians may request that their student be referred to the psychologist by talking to the teachers (s), counselor and/or principal.
5. What happens when my child is referred to the school psychologist?
   Parents, school psychologists, teachers and other involved staff members complete an evaluation process and these members of the "Building Team" meet. It is determined, according to the State/Federal Guidelines, whether the student is eligible for services from the KPS Special Education Department or whether other strategies should be implemented.
6. If my child is eligible for special education services, what happens next?
   The parent/guardian and the "Building Team" meet and complete an IEP (Individualized Education Program). At this meeting, a legal report is completed and the services that will be provided for the student are determined. The IEP report is signed and is legally valid for one year.
7. What if my child does not qualify for special education services, but has a disability?
   Disability does not mean eligibility. The State/Federal Criteria for special education services are very specific, but your child may qualify for a section 504 plan.
8. What is a Section 504 Plan?
   A Section 504 Plan is developed for students with a disability, mental or physical, which substantially limits one or more major life activities (self care, manual tasks, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, learning and working). The Section 504 Plan is implemented to provide an education that is comparable to non-handicapped students. If a child is eligible for a 504 Plan, reasonable accommodations are made for physical and/or instructional education and related aids and services are provided. All students who qualify for special education services, automatically qualify under Section 504, and do not need a separate plan. For more information about Section 504 determination procedures click here.

Each child's plan is uniquely designed to serve his/her specific needs. If you have further questions, please feel free to call us.