What is the Child Study Team?

A child study team (CST) is an interdisciplinary group, consisting of a psychologist, a social worker, a learning disabilities teacher-consultant and a speech therapist, who:

-evaluate and participate in determining a student's eligibility for special education and/or related services

-coordinate the development, monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the student's individual education plan

-may deliver the appropriate related services to students with educational disabilities

-may provide preventive and support services to non-disabled students

-may provide services to the general education staff regarding techniques, materials, and programs for students experiencing difficulties in learning

The CST works together to place students with educational disabilities in the most appropriate educational program, in the least restrictive environment, closest to their home. The team works to provide students with educational disabilities the same opportunities as students in regular education.

How does a child get referred to the CST?

There are two ways a child can be referred to the CST.

-a teacher refers the child to the Pupil Assistance Committee (PAC) at his/her school. The student is reviewed by the PAC If no other educational help is available and the PAC has reviewed the child twice, the PAC then refers the child to the CST for evaluation.

-a parent who suspects their child has an educational disability can write a letter to the CST requesting that their child be tested for a learning disability.

Can a child be tested without a parent(s) knowledge?

A child CANNOT be tested without parental consent. If a child is referred to the CST the parent(s) will be contacted and an appointment  will be made to discuss   the child's education. A decision to test the child for a learning disability will be determined at this meeting.

An initial evaluation by the CST will consist of:

-assessment by the school psychologist

-assessment by the learning consultant

-assessment by the social worker

The evaluation will include an appraisal of the student's current functioning and an analysis of instructional implications based on the child's functioning level.

For more information please call the CST at (856) 931 6305