If you suspect your child may need specialized education services due to a disability, you’re not alone. Many parents consider requesting an IEP—sometimes prompted by a doctor's recommendation—but aren’t sure where to begin.
An IEP, or Individualized Education Plan, is designed to support students with specific learning needs. In private schools, this is often referred to as an ISP (Individualized Service Plan). At Concordia Lutheran High School (CLHS), we’re fortunate to have a strong partnership with our local education agency, Fort Wayne Community Schools (FWCS). Through this collaboration, we participate in what’s called “Child Find,” a process that helps identify students who may qualify for special education services.
In many cases, students are evaluated before they reach high school. However, testing can be requested at any time during their time at CLHS if concerns arise.
If you believe your child may benefit from an evaluation, the first step is simple: reach out to your child’s school counselor or the Study Center Director directly. We’ll guide you through the next steps, which typically begin with submitting a formal testing request to our FWCS contact. Providing as much relevant information as possible will help move the process forward smoothly.
From there, FWCS will review the information provided by both you and CLHS to determine the appropriate next step. This may involve scheduling a meeting or deciding whether formal testing is necessary. If testing is approved, a school psychologist will come to Concordia over the course of a few days to work directly with your child. If testing is not recommended, alternative suggestions or supports may be offered through Concordia.
Once testing is complete, a meeting will be scheduled with you, FWCS representatives, and CLHS staff. During this meeting, the psychologist will explain the results in detail. If the evaluation indicates a need, an ISP may be developed. If an ISP is not recommended, alternative suggestions or support may be offered through Concordia. Regardless of the outcome, the insights gained from testing help us work together to support your child’s success in school.
Our goal is always the same: to faithfully support each student as a unique child of God, help them grow in Christ, support them in using their God-given gifts, and help them thrive to the fullest of their potential.
God’s Blessings
~ Lisa Sherrod