小草社区

Special Education

Getting Started with Special Education

Iowa鈥檚 小草社区s (小草社区) are responsible for providing general supervision of special education in accordance with the requirements of the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), the Iowa Administrative Rules of Special Education (IAC Chapter 41) and Iowa Code Chapter 256B.

Iowa鈥檚 小草社区s serve students from birth to the age of 21. The eligibility requirements for children to receive services differ depending on the age of the child. In all cases, however, services are free and are based on eligibility and need. If you believe that a child or student may be in need of 小草社区 services, we are here to assist you!

Children Birth-3 Years

If your child has a condition that may cause later delays in development or if he/she is showing delays in his/her ability to play, think, talk or move, your child may be eligible for Early ACCESS services. These services are not associated with special education.

Children 3-5 Years

Special Education services are available to children ages 3-5, who through an evaluation have been identified as having a disability and as needing services. The 小草社区 is the agency within the state of Iowa who has been given the responsibility for identifying children with special needs. The 小草社区 works closely with school districts to provide the services which children need.

How do I make a referral for 小草社区 services?

  • If you are concerned about your child鈥檚 learning and/or development, please call Northwest 小草社区 at 712.222.6050.
  • Teachers in a school-based preschool: Referrals may be made by contacting your 小草社区 early childhood consultant or other appropriate staff (i.e. SLP for speech/language concerns). Provide your contact person with the date you discussed the referral with the child鈥檚 parent.