Complaint Summary

Date Findings Report Sent:

February 28, 2025

Case Number:

25-0308

Grade Level:

Middle

Person filing complaint:

Parent

School District:

Hamden (single student)

Allegation(s):

• The Parent alleged that the District failed to refer the Student for a special education evaluation due to the Student’s unsatisfactory attendance.
• 34 CFR § 300.111 requires that all children with disabilities residing in the State who are in need of special education and related services be identified, located and evaluated. RCSA § 10-76d-7 requires prompt referral to a PPT of all children who have been suspended repeatedly or whose behavior, attendance or progress in school is considered unsatisfactory or at a marginal level of acceptance.

Conclusion(s):

• From September 29, 2023, through March 28, 2024, the Student was absent from school for approximately 40 days. In total, the Student was absent from school 90 days during the school year, which is equivalent to 50% of the school year. The Student was also tardy on 26 days. During the first quarter of school, the Student was failing one of his nine classes. During the second quarter of school, the Student was failing three of his nine classes. By the third quarter, the Student was failing six out of his nine classes. By the end of the second quarter, the Student’s attendance and progress in school were unsatisfactory, and the District had a duty to refer the Student for a PPT meeting. The District never referred the Student to a PPT during the 2023-24 school year; therefore, it is found to be in violation of RCSA § 10-76d-7.

Corrective Action(s):

• On or before October 31, 2025, the District must provide training to its special education administrators and guidance counselors/school counselors at the middle school regarding the requirements of RCSA § 10-76d-7.