School districts are required to identify and locate children who are suspected of having a disability. This mandate- called Child Find- includes ALL children- including those who attend private schools, are homeless, migrants or wards of the state. Notably, Child Find also applies to students who earn "good" grades and continue to be promoted from grade-to-grade each year.  

 

Although federal law requires that districts have systems in place to identify students with possible disabilities, other individuals may also play a role in locating these individuals. Parents & guardians, counselors, medical professionals, and others with an interest in the wellbeing of a child may also refer a student who is suspected of having a disability.  

 

Ohio Student Advocacy guides families step-by-step through the process of identification for possible special education services. Ohio Student Advocacy ensures that appropriate language and methods of communication are utilized, keeping the sometimes lengthy process of identification to the timeline required by law.  

 

 

Resources

 

Individuals with Disabilities Education Act: Child Find Mandate

Ohio Revised Code: Child Find

Wrightslaw: What is Child Find?