WEST-E Special Education Practice Test

Who is typically responsible for initiating a referral for special education evaluation?

1. A school counselor

2. A general education teacher or parent

3. A special education administrator

4. A district evaluator

The correct answer is: A general education teacher or parent

In most educational systems, the initiation of a referral for special education evaluation usually falls to either a general education teacher or a parent. This is because they are often the first to notice signs that a child may need additional support due to learning difficulties or disabilities. General education teachers are in a unique position to observe students' academic performance and behavioral issues in the classroom setting. If they identify concerns about a student’s ability to learn or function effectively in the general education environment, they can initiate a referral for evaluation. Parents, as primary caregivers, also play a crucial role in this process. They may express concerns regarding their child's development or learning progress and can advocate for the evaluation. The importance of the involvement of both teachers and parents in this process is underscored by the idea that effective collaboration between home and school is essential to support a child's educational needs. Other professionals, such as school counselors or special education administrators, may participate later in the process, but the referral typically starts with those who observe the child's needs most closely in educational or home settings.