VDOE has released a "Video Guide to the Special Education Evaluation Process for Families" as additional guidance to support accurate and consistent eligibility determinations and access to special education across school divisions. These video modules will provide parents, families, and other stakeholders with a brief but comprehensive overview of the special education process on the following topics:

Evaluation

Eligibility

IEP

Early Intervention

Ineligible

There are 6 videos that can be access through the link provided.

This video provides a broad overview of the evaluation process for special education and related services. In simplest terms, evaluation is a three step process:

1. A group of qualified individuals reviews all existing information.
2. Any additional information will be collected.
3. Review all information in order to make an eligibility determination.

The eligibility team reviews the information to determine if the data meets eligibility criteria in accordance with any suspected disability categories. To meet the criteria, the team must satisfy the following:

1. Documentation of an impairment

2. An adverse effect on educational performance due to that impairment

3. The need for specially designed instruction.

If the student is found eligible, an Individualized Education Program, or IEP, will be developed to address the identified disability(ies). An IEP is a written plan, and is unique to each individual student.

In Virginia, early intervention services are available for children birth to age three through Infant and Toddler Connection, or ITC. Supports and services are outlined in an IFSP, or an Individualized Family Service Plan.

If the student is found eligible, an IEP will be developed. However, if the student is determined to be ineligible, there are resources available. The student will likely be referred back to the school-based problem solving team to review and revise the current plan based on the evaluation information and recommendations provided by the eligibility team.