Special Education Services
For Students Attending Homeschool / Nonpublic Schools
Detroit Lakes Public Schools provides special education and related services to eligible students attending nonpublic schools with disabilities, as required by Section 34 CFR 300.134 of the regulations implementing the Individual with Disabilities Education Act.
Special Education and related services are provided to children identified as having a disability in one of the 13 disability categories:
| Autism Spectrum Disorder | Blind—Visually Impaired | Deaf Blind |
| Deaf and Hard of Hearing | Developmental Cognitive Disabilities | Developmental Delay |
| Emotional or Behavioral Disorder | Other Health Disability | Physical Disability |
| Specific Learning Disability | Speech or Language Impairment | Traumatic Brain Injury |
Children suspected of having a disability can be referred for a comprehensive education evaluation by parents, administrators, teachers or other private school staff. The “child find” process initially involves gathering information about the child, his/her background and educational concerns.
To make a referral contact: Karen Nudell at knudell@detlakes.k12.mn.us or 218-847-9271.
An evaluation plan is created with input from parents and educational staff. Since the evaluation plan covers multiple domains, several professionals may be involved in completing the testing. The plan lists the areas to be assessed, evaluation tools to be administered, and the title of the professional assigned to complete the testing.
Parents must sign in agreement with the evaluation plan before any testing begins. Once the evaluation plan is signed, the team has 30 school days to complete the testing and meet with the parents to discuss the evaluation results. If the child qualifies for special education and related services, an Individual Service Plan (ISP) is developed that includes goals and objectives focused on educational needs identified in the evaluation.
Services may include direct or indirect service as well as accommodations to general and special education. Progress reports and ISP meetings are held to inform parents and administrators of student growth. Parents must sign in agreement with the ISP before services can begin. If direct special education services are listed in the ISP, the services are arranged and provided at a public school site as determined by the Detroit Lakes Public Schools. Additionally, transportation from the private school to the public school may be provided.