HOPE – The Hope Public Schools offers information for parents and students interested in determining whether they qualify for special education or other services provided through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEA).

“Child Find is a component of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act that requires states to identify, locate, and evaluate all children with disabilities aged birth to 21, who are in need of early intervention or special education services,” according to Arkansas Child Find.

Under the IDEA legislation, all states must have a comprehensive system to assure all children within each school district who may be identified as needing early intervention or special education services are located, identified and referred for appropriate services.

Early intervention services in Arkansas are under the direction of the IDEA Early Intervention Program of the Arkansas Department of Human Services for individuals ages infant – 3 years. The Arkansas Department of Education is the lead agency for services for individuals ages 3-21 years.

Children in the Hope Public Schools who manifest declining academic performance, problems with behavioral issues, are the target of bullying or manifest bullying behavior, suffer extended illness, are medically diagnosed with a recognized disability, fail to attend classes or manifest anxiety about attendance, have been hospitalized for psychiatric treatment or suicide attempt, are English language learners, or manifest issues within the Response to Intervention process may be referred for special services.

Questions should be directed to Josclyn Wiley, Assistant Superintendent for Special Services, at 870-777-2251, ext. 32; or Dr. Linda Clark, HPS District Social Worker/Homeless Liaison, at 870-777-2251, ext. 29.