Those familiar with CPSE (Committee for Special Education)

I have to request additional services for my daughter (pre-K)through the school district. Right now she receives OT but I need help on the psycological side as she has developed OCD habits. The teachers keeps a log of how many times DD goes to the bathroom and it can be anywhere from 5 to 15 times a day. (in 2.5 hours) The school social worker recommended I get outside services but I feel it's something I can get through the district since I think it's impacitng her learning, but the teacher doesn't. There are many other OCD issues she has, but that is the only one she is exhibiting in school.

Anyway , what exactly is the role of the CPSE and the CPSE chairperson? Is the chairperson my spokesperson and she discusses it with the commitee? Is she helping me to get the services or am I on my own and requesting the services from her?

I'm just a little confused about who does what and this is overwhelming!

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

Re: Those familiar with CPSE (Committee for Special Education)

You have FM

Re: Those familiar with CPSE (Committee for Special Education)

The chairperson heads the committee that is usually made up of teachers, county reps, a rep from agency that did evaluations, a parent who has been through CPSE. I believe the chairperson can over-rule the committees decision, but I wouldn't exactly say they are your spokesperson, but they will hear you out. You are requesting services from the school district for your child.

I am pretty sure you can ask to have your daughters OT therapist at the meeting, or to write a report. (Ask for a phone conference if person can't be there.) I would ask her teacher to write something describing the habits that she is developing, and how it is effecting her academics, social interaction, behavior, etc. If she is leaving the classroom that much it will start to disrupt her learning, mb not at this level but as she gets older. My school district actually sent a report to my sons preschool asking for an evaluation in various areas. My son technically DID NOT qualify for services but this report weighed very heavily and swayed the committee bc his teacher said his speech was limiting so much of his interaction and academics.
I'd call the CPSE office and see if they do the same. It doesn't ask for opinions from the teacher so don't worry about what the teacher thinks. If they do something like that ask for a copy from the teacher so you can read it ahead of time. i believe by law any official reports you must receive a copy of 5 school days prior to meeting so you can review them.



Best advice: you need to prove how all of this behavior can and will effect her education, so reach out to anyone who can help you prove that. Bring up any life factors that might be impacting her; new sibling, change in life, a move, a death...whatever you need to. Change is a big stressor for kids, if any apply use them. Someone on the committee might have sympathy for that a vote yes.
Do you have a service coordinator or anyone who has helped you in the past from EI or the therapists office that can speak on her behalf as well?