DODEA SPECIAL EDUCATION
In the Department of Defense Dependent
School system, special education and related services are available to eligible
students, ages 3 through 21 years of age. To be eligible for special
education, a child must have an identified disability. The disability
must adversely affect the child's educational performance, and the child must
need a specially designed instructional program.
DoDEA
recognizes clearly defined categories of disabilities with specific criteria for
determining eligibility. The primary categories and specific
disabilities recognized by DoDEA are: physical impairment, communication
impairment, emotional impairment, and learning impairment.
EDUCATIONAL
SERVICES
Decisions about the types of special education services to be
provided and the educational placement for the provision of these services area
is based upon the individual needs of each student. Students with
disabilities are educated in the least restrictive environment that is most
appropriate for them. A variety of special education services are
available beginning with participation in the general education classroom to the
extent possible as determined by the school's Case Study Committee (CSC) that
includes parents.
RELATED SERVICES
Related services are
those services required for the student to benefit from his or her special
education program and may include psychological and counseling services,
language, speech, and hearing, assistive technology, physical and occupational
therapy and medical services that are required for diagnostic or evaluation
purposes.
DEVELOPMENTAL INTERVENTION SERVICES
The Military Medical
Departments through their Educational and Developmental Intervention Services
are responsible for providing related services. For example, physical
and occupational therapy, and clinical psychology in DoDEA schools located
overseas. Early Intervention Services (EIS) for children, age's birth
through 2, is provided at all DoDEA locations.
DOD ADVISORY
PANEL
The DOD Advisory Panel on Early Intervention and Special
Education is organized and functions in accordance with DOD instruction 1342.12,
"Provision of Early Intervention and Special Education Services to Eligible DoD
Dependents."
EFMP SUPPORT GROUP
Parents of children with
special needs can attend a "Special Needs Network" group twice a month at the
Chapel Annex at 6:30 pm. The group meets for support and education
purposes. The meetings are sponsored by the Bethesda/Dahlgren Branch
Medical EFMP Interagency Coordination Council. Childcare is provided
if needed.
RELOCATING WITH A SPECIAL NEEDS CHILD
At least 30 days
prior to your move: Notify the your current school of your move and request a
copy of your child's educational records. Obtain a copy of your
child's Individualized Education Program. Obtain a copy of all
assessment information used by the school to plan for your child's special needs
when relocating. Obtain a copy of pertinent medical
records.
As you leave your duty station: Take any special
equipment, medication refills, and supplies, e.g. hearing aid
batteries. Hand carry information you collected about your child's
educational program. Take this information to the Dahlgren School
when you enroll your child.
EXCEPTIONAL FAMILY MEMBER PROGRAM
(EFMP)
The Dahlgren Branch Medical Clinic manages the EFMP for
Dahlgren installation. The Fleet and Family Support Center
Information and Referral Specialist can also provide you with EFMP assistance
and information. Refer to Contacts/Links for
information.