A referral is a written request for an evaluation that is given to the school district when a child is suspected of having a disability and might need special education services. A referral is made after a student has gone through the Intervention and Referral Service program where weaknesses are identified and accommodations tried. A letter of referral may be written to the school principal, Supervisor of Special Education, or other appropriate school official.

Parents, school personnel and agencies concerned with the academic and emotional functioning of students can refer a student to the CST.

Within 20 calendar days of receiving a referral, the school district most hold a meeting to decide whether an evaluation will be conducted. If an evaluation will be conducted, another decision is made about the types of testing and other procedures that will be used to determine if your child needs special education services. If an evaluation will not be conducted, recommendations may be made with respect to interventions or services to be provided the student in general education.