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 have 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 IEP's, 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 as special needs, 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 to start the process).
It is recommended
that you, as a parent, make informed decisions regarding your child's
accommodations in the public school system. 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 at (808) 433-9655, or you may call the Fleet and
Family Support Center EFMP Liaison at (808) 473-4222 x245.