FAQ

Before selecting Integrated Treatment Services as a special services provider, your child must undergo an evaluation to determine whether he or she is eligible. Listed below are frequently asked questions (FAQ) that parents will have when seeking to obtain special services for their child.

Q. WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO RECEIVE SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES?

A. A child with a 33% delay in one area of functioning, OR a 25% delay in two or more areas of functioning, OR a 12 month delay in one area of functioning.

Q. WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT DURING THE EVALUATION PROCESS?

A. The evaluation process includes 3 parts.

 

1. The Social History
A social worker or other licensed professional will:

  • Review the packet sent to you from the Department of Education
  • Ensure you have signed the consent form
  • Conduct a parent interview including your child’s medical history and general development
  • Inform you of your “due process” rights as a parent

2. The Evaluations
In accordance with the NYC Department of Education regulations, all children must receive the follow evaluations

  • Psychological Evaluation
  • Classroom observation if attending school (Educational Evaluation)
  • Social History

Additional evaluations that can be conducted based on your child’s need

  • Speech and Language Evaluation (and Audiological Assessment)
  • Occupational Therapy Evaluation
  • Physical Therapy Evaluation

All results will be reviewed with you and then a copy will be sent to you and to the Department of Education.


3. IEP Meeting (Individual Education Plan)

Once all the evaluations are completed a meeting at the Department of Education will be convened at which time a recommendation for services will be made. The attendees at the meeting include: district administrator, parent(s) or guardian, evaluation agency representative, or any therapist, teacher or school representative you would like to invite. We will review the process of the meeting with you.

Q. WHERE ARE THE EVALUATIONS CONDUCTED?

A. If your child attends a school, according to the Department of Education, at least one evaluation must be done there. Evaluations may also be conducted at home, at a day care or at our evaluation site.

Q. WHAT SERVICES ARE AVAILABLE?

A. Special Education, Speech and Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Play Therapy, Vision Therapy, and Health Para.

Q. WHERE DO THE SERVICES TAKE PLACE?

A. Most preschool children with disabilities can receive special services in their regular school environment.

Q. WHAT IS THE COST?

A. Services are funded by the municipalities and the state and therefore there is no cost to the parent.

Q. WHEN WILL THE SERVICES BEGIN?

A. The evaluation packet, including the medical, must be submitted within 20 business days after the referral. The Department of Education has 40 days to schedule the IEP meeting. The date and time of the IEP meeting is determined by the Department of Education. If/when services are approved at the meeting, services can begin as soon as a provider is identified. If there are providers in your child's school, parents are encouraged to bring this information to the meeting.

Q. WHAT IS MY ROLE IN THE EVALUATION PROCESS?

A. As the parent, you are responsible for:

 
  • Medical Form - This needs to be submitted to the Department of Education with all of the other evaluations. We ask you to cooperate and submit your medical to our office as soon as possible so that your packet can be submitted within the 20 days mentioned above. A PACKET IS NOT CONSIDERED COMPLETE WITHOUT THE MEDICAL AND THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION WILL CLOSE THE CASE.
  • OT/PT Prescription - If your child is having an occupational or physical therapy evaluation, prescriptions for these services from the pediatrician must be included in the packet.
  • IEP Meeting - We urge all parents to attend the meeting as you are your child's best advocate.
  • Audiological Test - A hearing test accompanies the speech and language evaluation. Please schedule this appointment at your earliest convenience. Please call our office for a referral for this evaluation. You are responsible for this appointment, making it and keeping it.
  • Birth Certificate - You will be notified specifically if there is a need for a copy as it is only necessary in certain cases.

Contact your local Department of Education to request an evaluation and determine if your child requires these services. All services are funded by the New York City Department of Education and the New York State Education Department, and are available at no charge to eligible children and their parents.