Services for Special Needs
Evaluation of children for interventions needed
If a child is not meeting the developmental milestones for his or her age, or is experiencing a problem with the way he or she plays, learns, speaks, acts and moves, the child can be evaluated to see if any interventions are needed.
The Center for Disease Control has information about developmental milestones and what is typical for a child at different ages.
A pediatrician and child care provider can offer guidance and should be able to screen the child for delays.
Visit Special Education Programs & Resources .
Children Ages Birth to Three
Early Steps is Louisiana's Early Intervention System program that evaluates children under the age of three for developmental delays and provides services including occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech language pathology, audiology, translation services, vision services and more. Start the process by contacting Easterseals Louisiana, the local Early Steps point of entry, at 504-523-7325.
Children Ages Three to Five
Children ages three to five who are not yet enrolled in public school can receive an evaluation through the Child Search process, which is coordinated by NOLA Public Schools. If the child is already enrolled in a public school, identification and referrals will be made through the school’s Student Assessment Team. The Child Search process is used to identify gifted children, as well as those with developmental delays.
Parents may request an evaluation for children 3-5 years old online through NOLA Public Schools Child Search or call (504) 304-4988.
Special needs students receive priority
Children who are identified as having a disability or special learning needs receive priority for public school prekindergarten programs and Head Start programs.
