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Referrals & Registration

How to Request a Special Education Evaluation

If you believe your child may benefit from special education services, you have the right to request an evaluation through your school district. Here's how the process works:

1. If Your Child Is in Early Intervention (e.g., NBRC)
If your child is currently receiving Early Intervention services—such as through North Bay Regional Center (NBRC)—your service coordinator will discuss with you whether a referral to the school district should be made as your child approaches age 3. With your permission, they can initiate that referral on your behalf. If you have a concern about your baby’s development, you may call the Early Start Warmline at (707) 591-0170.

2. Submitting a Referral Yourself
Parents or guardians can also initiate a referral at any time by submitting a written request. Written requests can be sent to our office via email (echaparrosanchez@srcs.k12.ca.us), postal mail, or dropped off in the main office. Be sure to include your concerns and why you believe your child may need additional support.

3. What Happens Next
Once your request is received, the school team will determine whether an evaluation is appropriate. If so, you’ll receive a proposed assessment plan and a request for written consent.

4. Evaluation Timeline
After you sign the assessment plan, the district has 60 calendar days (excluding school breaks of 5+ days) to complete the evaluation.

5. Determining Eligibility
A team of professionals will assess your child in the areas of concern. Once completed, you'll be invited to a meeting to review the results and determine if your child qualifies for special education services.

Need Help?
If you're not sure how to begin or would like help writing your referral, please contact us. We are happy to help!

Registration with the School District

To complete the process, please register your child with Santa Rosa City Schools. Registration does not enroll your child in a specific school or program—it simply gets them into the system so that the assessment and IEP process can proceed.

To register, you will need the following documents:

  • Proof of residence (e.g., utility bill)
  • Your child’s birth certificate
  • Proof of immunizations

There are three ways to register:

  1. Online: https://santarosacity.aeries.net/enrollment/. Select Lewis Early Learning Academy when asked to select a grade level or program
  2. Email: Send documents to echaparrosanchez@srcs.k12.ca.us
  3. In Person: Lewis Early Learning Academy, 2230 Lomitas Avenue, Santa Rosa, CA

If you have any questions about this process, feel free to reach out. We’re here to support you and your child every step of the way.