Welcome to the World of Early Childhood Transitions!
Are you a parent or educator navigating the early childhood transition process in Oklahoma? You're in the right place! Let's dive into the essential steps and best practices to ensure a smooth transition for young children moving from SoonerStart to their Local Education Agencies (LEAs).
The Journey Begins with SoonerStart
In Oklahoma, young children served by SoonerStart are potentially eligible for special education services starting at age three. SoonerStart plays a pivotal role in this transition by notifying LEAs about children aged 27-33 months and scheduling a Transition Planning Conference (TPC). With parental consent, LEAs are invited to these conferences to ensure everyone is on the same page.
Key Requirements for Early Childhood Transition
When SoonerStart refers a child, the LEA must:
- Offer an initial evaluation and, if the child is eligible, develop an Individualized Education Program (IEP) by the child's third birthday.
- Provide families with a Written Notice to Parents, documenting the proposal to consider the child's eligibility for special education services. This notice includes procedural safeguards and occurs regardless of the notification timeline.
- Initiate contact with all SoonerStart referrals and participate in TPCs arranged by SoonerStart.
- Complete the initial evaluation and IEP for children with summer birthdays by their third birthday, with services starting as needed.
- Respect parents' rights to decline or revoke consent for evaluations or services at any time, documenting these decisions in a Written Notice.
- Invite the SoonerStart resource coordinator to the IEP Team meeting if requested by the parent.
- Comply with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), which supersedes state or local policies.
Understanding Transition Timelines
Here's a quick guide to the timelines:
- More than 90 days before the third birthday: LEAs attend the TPC, and eligibility and IEP must be in place by the third birthday.
- 90 days or less before the third birthday: Considered late referrals. Transition Planning Conferences are not required, but eligibility and IEP should be in place by the third birthday.
- Less than 45 days before the third birthday: SoonerStart does not accept referrals. LEAs use the 45-school-day timeline starting with signed parental consent.
What If...?
Here are some common scenarios:
- Parents do not respond to LEA: LEAs must document attempts to contact and offer evaluations in a Written Notice mailed to the family's last known address.
- Parents lack enrollment documents: IDEA regulations allow the use of a soft enrollment process to enter students into EdPlan, ensuring no delays in transition timelines.
- Parents want an evaluation after initially declining: If parents change their minds before the child's third birthday, the LEA's documentation will support a timely transition.
Transitioning from early intervention to special education can be a complex process, but with the right information and support, it can be a seamless experience for families and educators alike.
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