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Child Find Information

Every Child. Every Day.

Hitchcock ISD is committed to identifying, locating, and supporting children with disabilities who may need special education services. Through our Child Find program, we provide free screenings and evaluations to help determine whether a child qualifies for special education services and the supports needed for success.

If you have concerns about your child's development, we encourage you to contact us. Early identification can make a meaningful difference in a child's educational journey.

What Is Child Find?

Child Find is a free service required by federal and state law that helps identify children from birth through age 21 who may have disabilities and qualify for special education services.

Hitchcock ISD's Child Find Assessment Team conducts a monthly intake process to evaluate children living within the district who may benefit from additional educational support.

Who Should Be Referred?

Parents, guardians, physicians, childcare providers, or community members may refer a child if there are concerns in areas such as:

  • Speech and language development

  • Learning or academic skills
  • Behavior
  • Vision or hearing
  • Fine or gross motor skills
  • Social or emotional development
  • Developmental delays
  • Other developmental concerns

Monthly Screenings (Ages 3–5)

Children ages 3 through 5 may be scheduled for screenings during the following dates:

  • August 26, 2026

  • September 16, 2026
  • October 21, 2026
  • November 18, 2026
  • December 16, 2026
  • January 13, 2027
  • February 17, 2027
  • March 17, 2027
  • April 14, 2027
  • May 12, 2027

Time: 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Location:
Hitchcock Primary School
5901 FM 2004
Hitchcock, TX 77563

Appointments are required.

Why Early Detection Matters

Early detection of developmental concerns gives children the opportunity to receive support when it can make the greatest impact. The early years of a child's life are a time of rapid growth and learning, and identifying areas where a child may need extra support allows families and professionals to work together to provide helpful strategies and resources.

When concerns are identified early, children may have access to services that support communication, learning, social skills, behavior, motor development, and other important areas of growth. Early support can help children build confidence, develop new skills, and be better prepared for success at home, in school, and in their community.

Every child develops at their own pace, and seeking support does not mean something is "wrong" with your child. Child Find is designed to help families better understand their child's strengths and needs and connect them with resources that can support their continued growth.

If you have concerns about your child's development, reaching out early is an important first step. Our team is here to listen, answer questions, and help guide you through the process.

What to Bring

We understand that coming to Child Find can feel overwhelming, and we're here to make the process as welcoming and supportive as possible. During your visit, you and your child will meet with friendly professionals who will take the time to learn about your child's development, strengths, and any concerns you may have.

Your child may participate in activities that look and feel like play while our team observes communication, learning, movement, social skills, and other developmental areas. You will also have the opportunity to share information about your child's growth, medical history, and daily routines.

After the screening or evaluation, our team will discuss the results with you, answer your questions, and explain any recommendations or next steps. Our goal is to partner with your family to ensure your child receives the support and resources they need to thrive.

We look forward to meeting you and your child!

What to Expect

During your appointment, our Child Find team will:

  • Discuss your concerns about your child's development.

  • Review your child's developmental and educational history.
  • Answer questions about the Child Find process.
  • Explain the evaluation process.
  • Provide information about available services and supports.
  • Assist you with any next steps if additional evaluations are recommended.
What to Expect If Your Child Qualifies for a REED

If your child is referred for a Review of Existing Evaluation Data (REED), this means the evaluation team will review the information already available about your child to help determine the next steps in the evaluation process. The REED is a collaborative process that includes input from you, as your child's parent or guardian, as well as school professionals who know your child.

During the REED, the team will review information such as developmental history, parent concerns, teacher observations, previous evaluations, classroom information, medical information (when provided), and other relevant data about your child's strengths and areas of need.

After reviewing the information, the team will determine whether additional evaluation is needed. If more information is needed, the team will explain what assessments are recommended and request your written consent before completing any additional evaluations. If enough information is available, the team may use the existing data to help determine your child's eligibility for special education services.

You are an important part of this process. Your questions, observations, and knowledge of your child help the team make informed decisions and ensure your child receives the support and services they need to be successful.

Schedule an Appointment

To schedule a Child Find screening or evaluation, please contact:

Andrea Vara
Executive Director of Special Education

Email: hisdsped@hitchcockisd.org

Our team will work with your family to schedule an appointment that best meets your needs.
Additional Information

Child Find services are available at no cost to eligible families living within Hitchcock ISD.

If you have concerns about your child's development, you do not need to wait until they enter school. We encourage families to reach out as early as possible so we can partner together to support every child's success.

For more information, visit:
www.hitchcockisd.org/childfind

Additional Resources and Family Supports

Families are an important part of their child's success. In addition to Child Find services, there are many community resources available to provide information, support, and guidance as you navigate your child's developmental journey.

Developmental Support Resources

  • Your child's pediatrician: Your child's doctor can help answer questions about development, provide referrals, and connect families with medical or community-based services.
  • Local early childhood programs: Community programs may offer developmental activities, parent education, and family support services.
  • Parent support organizations: Connecting with other families can provide encouragement, shared experiences, and helpful resources.
Texas Resources

  • Texas Early Childhood Intervention (ECI): Provides services and support for families with children birth to age 3 who have developmental delays or disabilities.

  • Texas Education Agency (TEA): Provides information about special education services and parent rights in Texas public schools.

  • 211 Texas: A free resource that connects families with local health and human services, including childcare, disability resources, and family support programs.
How Families Can Support Development at Home

  • Talk, read, and sing with your child every day.

  • Encourage play and exploration.

  • Create opportunities for your child to practice new skills.
  • Celebrate your child's strengths and progress.
  • Stay connected with teachers, caregivers, and support professionals.

You are your child's first and most important teacher. Working together with your child's support team can help your child reach their full potential.

Additional Resources and Family Supports section:

Texas Resources
Additional Family & Developmental Resources

  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Developmental Milestones
    Information to help families track developmental milestones and learn when to seek additional support.
    https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/

  • Help Me Grow Texas
    Provides families with information and connections to developmental resources and services in their community.
    https://helpmegrowtexas.org/
  • Family to Family Network (Texas)
    Offers resources, training, and support for families navigating special education and disability services.
    https://www.familytofamilynetwork.org/
  • National Center for Pyramid Model Innovations (NCPMI)
    Provides resources for families and educators supporting young children's social-emotional development.
    https://challengingbehavior.org/

 

Frequently Asked Questions