Note: Barking Sands has limited medical facilities. Personnel
with family members in need of special education can expect their cases to be
screened on a case by case basis prior to receiving an assignment to this
station.
If you are a parent of a child with special needs, you will find
help for the correct placement of your child at the "home school" or assigned
school that serves your housing area. As soon as you have been
assigned quarters, or found housing in the community, call the office of your
assigned school and make an appointment to see either the counselor or the
principal. If your child has been determined to be legally handicapped, either
physically or mentally, or has been diagnosed with a learning or behavior
disorder, hand carry all your documentation, to include copies of IEPs with
you. DO NOT send this paperwork with your household goods shipment,
as you will need it when you meet with the receiving school
staff. This will speed up the placement process.
If your child
has not been officially certified, but you feel your child needs to be
evaluated, ask the principal to initiate a formal assessment. It is
your right as a parent to receive this service. (If you arrive during
the summer, many principals and permanent office staff will be on
vacation. In this case, ask for a Form 0-42. Fill it out
and give it to the clerk. It will be sent to the district office and
will start the process).
It is recommended that you, as a parent, make
informed decisions regarding your child's accommodations in the public school
system. Here in Hawai'i there is currently a critical shortage of
teachers with certifications in Special Education, Learning Disabilities, and
Emotional Handicaps. Before enrolling your child in a school, it is recommended
you become familiar with the particulars of their Special Education program and
staff. The schools are required by Federal law to meet certain time
requirements in regards to the evaluation, placement, and implementation of a
student's individual education plan (IEP). These federally mandated
procedures are meant to allow the parents to play an active role in the initial
decision-making process, the creation of the IEP (individual education program),
and regular assessment of progress.
If you need assistance or have
questions concerning your child's needs, contact the EFMP (Exceptional Family
Member Program) Coordinator at Tripler Army Medical Center, or you may call the
Fleet and Family Support Center EFMP Liaison at (808)473-4222 x245.