Eligibility & Identification

Each child grows and develops at his or her own rate. However, you may have concerns about your child's learning or development. If you suspect that your child may have a disability and might need special education services, contact:

Spokane Public Schools Child Find at ChildFind@spokaneschools.org or 509.354.7947

If your child is currently enrolled in SPS, please discuss your concerns with your child's teacher and/or principal. Explain that you wish to refer your child for a special education evaluation. Learn about the evaluation process here, or call Child Find for more information. You can also fill out our Referral for Special Education Evaluation- Child Find form and return to your child's school or the Child Find email address above.

Services provided free-of-charge to children, ages birth through 21, include:

• child development information
• developmental screenings
• special education eligibility assessments

Find more information about Child Find on the state superintendent's site.

What Happens Next?

After Child Find receives your written referral, a team member will call you back as soon as possible and hold a meeting within 25 school days to discuss your concerns.

If needed, a developmental screening or assessment appointment will be scheduled. These Child Find services are provided at no cost to families. If your child qualifies for special education, you will be invited to participate in the development of an Individual Education Program (IEP). 

Infants and Toddlers

Child Find referrals for children ages 0-3 years will be referred to the Infant Toddler Network at 509.324.1651. You may also call this number directly.

Students in Private Schools

Any child in grades k-12 who attends a private school located within the boundaries may be referred for Child Find services. 

If your family is living in a temporary or transitional situation, you may contact the district where you are staying to attend a screening or initiate a child find.

Spokane Public Schools Child Find is responsible for locating, evaluating and identifying children, ages birth through 21, who are suspected of having a disability and may be in need of special education and related services, regardless of the severity of their disability. Students do not need to be enrolled in public school to receive Child Find services.