How does Illinois address 'child find' obligations and referrals for evaluation?

• A. Districts are required to identify and locate children with disabilities who may be in need of SPED services; this includes outreach to preschools, daycare, and community agencies and timely referrals.
• B. Districts are only required to evaluate upon parental requests.
• C. Districts refer to private clinics only.
• D. Districts identify only students in public schools.

Answer: (B)

In Illinois, child find is a proactive, district-driven process. Districts must actively identify and locate children who may have disabilities and may need special education services, and they must refer those children for evaluation when appropriate. This outreach goes beyond waiting for a parent to request an evaluation; it includes connecting with early childhood settings like preschools and daycares, as well as community agencies, to ensure that children who might be eligible are identified and supported in a timely way. Evaluations are conducted with parental consent, and the goal is to determine eligibility for special education and related services so supports can begin promptly.