Illinois Special Needs Resources

When a child is referred for special education in Illinois, the school district has 60 school days from when you give consent to complete the evaluation. This 60-day clock stops during summer breaks and extended holidays when school isn't in session. The evaluation has to be thorough enough to identify all of your child's needs, not just the most obvious ones. Illinois uses a process called "determination of eligibility" where the team reviews all evaluation data and decides if your child qualifies under one of the 13 federal disability categories.

If your child qualifies, the IEP team must develop an individualized education program. Illinois requires this IEP to include specific, measurable goals that address your child's involvement and progress in the general education curriculum. The IEP must also explain what special education services, related services, and supplementary aids and services will be provided, where they'll be delivered, and how often. For students age 14½ and older, Illinois requires transition planning as part of the IEP to prepare them for life after high school.

Illinois has been working to improve outcomes for students with disabilities through various initiatives. The state emphasizes inclusive practices and educating students with disabilities alongside their nondisabled peers whenever appropriate. Illinois also has Early Childhood Special Education services for children ages 3-5 who qualify. If you're concerned about how your child's IEP is being implemented or if you're not seeing progress, document what you're observing and request an IEP team meeting. Family Matters can help you prepare for that meeting and understand your options.

Illinois provides comprehensive special education services based on individual student needs. These include speech-language therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, psychological services, social work services, and specialized instruction in academic areas.

Services are delivered in various settings along a continuum. Most students receive support in their regular classroom with accommodations and modifications. Others attend resource rooms for specific subjects or receive more intensive services in special education classrooms.

Illinois requires transition planning to begin by age 14½, earlier than federal law requires. The IEP must address post-secondary goals and the transition services needed to help your child move toward those goals after high school.