Guiding Principles

In West Linn-Wilsonville, we understand the obligations of Child Find (locating, evaluating and identifying students with disabilities) while being keenly aware of the importance of not over-identifying students from underrepresented groups or making eligible students who may have issues other than disability impacting their learning, including second language acquisition.

We are committed to finding all students (birth to age 21) who need special education supports that reside in our boundaries. This commitment applies regardless of the severity of the disability, mobility, advancement from grade to grade or educational setting (private, alternative, charter, or home school). 

The question of eligibility for special education is an important one. Special education can provide much needed supports and insight for students with disabilities. At the same time, the identification for special education can impact the ways a student experiences school and the mindset of the learner and those around them.

Parents and community partners need information about this important process, especially that evaluations are conducted at no cost to the parent. We strive to communicate with parents and community partners about our evaluation and special education services.

Procedural Guidance

Public Awareness

• The district will publicize information about special education services in the district and the referral process for evaluations in multiple ways throughout the community. This may include, but is not limited to, advertisements in the local newspaper, posters in community settings, information on district website, information for doctor's offices, etc.