Child Find

July 25, 2025

The Richmond County School System is committed to identifying, locating, and evaluating all children with suspected disabilities who may be in need of special education services. In accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, the district provides a free appropriate public education (FAPE) to eligible students ages three through twenty-one.

Special education services are available at no cost to families and include a full continuum of supports designed to meet each child’s unique needs. Evaluations are conducted in areas of suspected disability, including learning, speech and language, intellectual development, emotional and behavioral functioning, autism, hearing, vision, physical and health impairments, traumatic brain injury, and overall development. All referrals and evaluations are handled confidentially, and parents or guardians maintain the right to consent to or refuse services, along with other procedural safeguards under federal and state law.

Child Find efforts apply to all children residing in Richmond County, including those enrolled in public schools, private schools, or homeschool programs, as well as children who are homeless, migrant, in foster care, or in correctional or detention facilities. Early identification is critical, as many disabilities may not be immediately apparent. Recognizing concerns early allows for timely intervention and increases the likelihood of improved academic and life outcomes for students.

Once a child is identified and determined eligible, an Individualized Education Program (IEP) is developed to provide specialized instruction and services tailored to the student’s individual needs. Families and community members are encouraged to refer any child suspected of having a disability so that appropriate supports can be provided.

To initiate a referral or to obtain additional information for students who are not enrolled in the Richmond County School System, but who reside in the county or attend a private school located in Richmond County, contact the Department of Student Services office at 706-826-1000.

For children ages 3–5, please complete the  Richmond County Preschool Referral Form on the Department of Special Education website. For additional support, please email our team at preschoolsupport@boe.richmond.k12.ga.us.

For children from birth to age three, early intervention services are available through Babies Can't Wait, Georgia’s statewide program supporting infants and toddlers with developmental delays or disabilities. Additional information about Child Find services is available through Child Find at 800-282-7552.

The Richmond County School System remains committed to partnering with families and the community to ensure that all children with disabilities are identified early and provided with the support they need to succeed.