Understanding the Referral Process for IEP Services
This workshop helps parents, and caregivers understand the step-by-step process of referring a child for special education services under an Individualized Education Program (IEP). Participants will learn their rights, timelines, evaluation procedures, and how to effectively collaborate with schools to ensure their child receives appropriate support.
WHEN: Tuesday, July 21, 2026 from 10:00-11:30 AM
WHERE: Zoom
COST: FREE!
Understanding the Referral Process for IEP Services
This workshop helps parents, and caregivers understand the step-by-step process of referring a child for special education services under an Individualized Education Program (IEP). Participants will learn their rights, timelines, evaluation procedures, and how to effectively collaborate with schools to ensure their child receives appropriate support.
Learning Objectives:
Understand what an IEP is and who qualifies
Learn how to initiate a referral for evaluation
Understand legal timelines and parent rights
Identify key members of the IEP team
Learn what happens after eligibility is determined
About the Presenter:
Deborah F. Sharpe is an executive leader and Founder & CEO of Sharpe Educational Consulting, LLC. She partners with CEOs, superintendents, and executive leaders in the public and private sectors to develop policy, lead strategic change initiatives, and implement organizational improvement plans. Her expertise includes executive leadership, organizational development, professional development, facilitation, and budget management.
Ms. Sharpe served for 30 years in the Baltimore City Public School System, holding progressive leadership roles including Special Education Teacher, Special Education Manager, Assistant Principal, Principal, and Assistant Superintendent/Executive Director of Principals. She is recognized by the Maryland State Department of Education as an expert in turning around low-performing schools and increasing achievement for students with the greatest needs, including those with disabilities. She also contributed to the development of the School Leaders Licensure Assessment (SLLA) with the National Board of Examiners.
She holds an Advanced Graduate Certificate in Administration and Supervision from The Johns Hopkins University, a Master of Education in Special Education from Coppin State University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications from Winston-Salem State University.