DECATUR

Child Find

The Decatur School District has a duty to locate, evaluate and identify any child residing in the District who may require Section 504 accommodation or may qualify for Special Education services.  

• Section 504 is a federal civil rights statute that prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability. 34 C.F.R. § 104.34 states that it is a public elementary or secondary program’s obligation to locate and identify students with disabilities in their jurisdiction, regardless of the nature or severity of the disability.  

• Child Find is a component of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEA) that requires states to identify, locate, and evaluate all children with disabilities aged birth to 21, who are in need of early intervention or special education services.

Child Find is an ongoing cooperative effort that involves state and local education agencies, parents, the community, professionals, related organizations, and private schools.

IDEA requires all states to have a “comprehensive Child Find system” to assure that all  children who are in need of early intervention or special education services are located,  identified, and referred.

In Arkansas, the lead agency for Part C of IDEA Early Intervention Program (children birth to 3 years) is the Arkansas Department of Human Services. The lead agency for Part B/619 (children ages 3-21 years), is the Arkansas Department of Education.  

AR Child Find Flyer 

If you have any questions please contact the special education department: 479-321-5780   Lsmith@decatursd.com