The District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) is responsible for completing Child Find by, locating, identifying, and evaluating all parentally-placed children, ages 3 to 22 years old that attend a private or religious school and have a disability or are suspected of having a disability. We are here to help you identify any delays or disabilities that your child may have. Children will be evaluated to determine whether they are eligible for special education. If eligible, DCPS will review with the family their options to obtain special education services.

The age of the child determines how the referral is made.

Early Stages handles referrals for children ages 3 years to 5 years and 10 months. Please visit the link below to access the required referral forms and documentation.

Ages 3 years to 5 years and 10 months

Centralized IEP Support Unit handles referral for children 5 years and 10 months through 21 years old. Please visit the link below to access the required referral forms and documentation.

Ages 5 years and 10 months through 21 years old

Contact Information:

Learn more about Child Find for Private School and Homeschool Students in DC at DCChildFind.wixsite.com/PrivateSchool.

Early Stages
Email: [email protected] 
Phone: (202) 698-8037
                                       

Fax: (202) 654-6079  

Centralized IEP Support Unit
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (202) 442-5475
Fax: (202) 654-6071

For more information on special education programs and services in DCPS, please refer to the DCPS Special Education Family Guide.