Autism Eligibility and Process
Medical based: Performed by a licensed mental health professional.
School Based: Performed by a licensed autism specialist.
The children's Hospital of Philadelphia Center for Autism Research. (click to read the whole document)
Parents are often surprised to learn that a medical diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) does not automatically entitle a student to special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Eligibility for special education services is based, rather, on an educational determination of a disability, which includes meeting not just the criteria for a specific disability (such as autism), but also finding that a student is in need of special services. Understanding the differences between a medical diagnosis and an educational determination of eligibility for special education services can help parents become better advocates for their children.
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Dallas School District #2 and the Autism Team are not affiliated with any of the organizations listed on this site except where specifically indicated.
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Please contact Debbie.McCleery@dsd2.org
with a link or information and how it has helped you.