Some students need a little extra help learning at home and in the classroom, and the state of Texas requires districts to seek out and find those children and offer the families help.
That program is called 'Child Find'.
Schools and district personnel test students who might be in need and evaluate what programs could help.
Some parents say they credit this program for their child's advances.
"Before he was two, we knew something was different about him and he's been in therapy since before he was two," says Amy Pearson.
Amy Pearson's 8-year-old son, Curt, has autism.
"To watch and not be able to do things other children can do and see him struggle with things that are easy to other children hurts as a parent," says Pearson.
The Pearson's enrolled him in special programs offered through the school district for speech, language and social skills when he was three.
"Provide specific services that are geared specifically to the student based on individual needs," says Stewart.
The Child Find program determines which students need help.
And what disabilities or skills need attention through observing the child.
"Wide variety of staff work with the kids, diagnosticians, speech and language pathologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists," says Stewart.
Physical therapy can be done at schools as well.
"Called least restrictive environment," says Pearson.
So the students can work on their problem areas and attend classes with their peers.
"Our focus is to help be successful in general education classroom," says Stewart.
Breaking down barriers with disabilities, like Curt.
"He's on the honor roll and plays basket ball and soccer, he's a typical kid," says Pearson.
To help students grow in school, and life.
"I think without the diligence, he would've been left behind. Not nearly as successful as he is now," says Pearson.
On Curt's last evaluation, the district determined he no longer needed extra social skills, language and speech classes.
The district offers extra help to families from birth to 21 years old in many situations.
TISD says parents who would like more information can call the district.
Or can check the Texas Education Association website:
http://www.tea.state.tx.us/
