Autism Evaluation and
Eligibility Determination Series
Information Sharing and Q&A

DATES
10.30.24 • 11.13.24 • 12.4.24 • 12.18.24 • 1.8.25 • 1.22.25  •  2.5.25 •  2.19.25 

TIME
9:00 AM to 11:00 AM
(some sessions may run longer)

FORMAT
Virtual

DESCRIPTION

In each session, we focus on a specific component of the evaluation and eligibility determination process. Each session will include a presentation of best practice guidance, followed by an opportunity for participants to ask technical questions, discuss specific issues, and problem-solve.

As always, we ask participants to refrain from using actual student names or disclosing any other personally identifiable information protected under FERPA.

These sessions are open to all Oregon public school and early childhood educators and staff. You are welcome to attend any or all of the sessions. No prior registration is required, this Google Meet link will be active for all sessions:

Via phone: (‪US‬)‪+1 650-667-3290‬
PIN: ‪883 646 610#

  SESSION LIST

Session 1 - October 30, 2024
Overview of the ASD Evaluation Process and Eligibility Criteria, Key Tenets
Overview of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) evaluations and eligibility determination process. Review of core features (social communication, restricted-repetitive patterns of behavior, interests or activities) and the seven domains. Contrasting medical diagnosis versus educational eligibility under IDEA. Describe the required assessments and criteria for eligibility. Exploring the referral process and obtaining consent to evaluate. Key tenets of evaluation best practices.

Session 2 - November 13, 2024
Gathering the Developmental History, Parent Interview and Required Health Information
How to gather the required Developmental History and conduct the Parent/Caregiver Interview to explore early developmental and current behavioral characteristics of autism. Gathering the required Medical or Health Assessment information, as well as the hearing and vision screenings.

Session 3 - December 4, 2024 (2.5 hours)
Social Communication Assessment for SLPs
Review of requirements associated with the Social Communication Assessment completed by SLPs (functional receptive and expressive language, pragmatics in natural contexts with peers, social understanding). We will discuss a variety of assessment procedures, selected based on the age and presentation of each child or youth (e.g., verbally fluent versus non-speaking). While intended for SLPs, all school-based professionals are welcome! 

Session 4 - December 18, 2024
Conducting Unstructured and Structured Observations
Guidance on completing the required unstructured observations across settings and during peer interaction. Explore how to conduct structured observations (i.e. direct interactions). Discuss developmentally appropriate activities and elicitation techniques that assist the evaluator in assessing the presence or absence of behavioral characteristics associated with autism.

Session 5 - January 8, 2025
Review of Standardized Autism Identification Tools: Selection and Appropriate Use
Review of Standardized Autism Identification Tools that are valid and reliable, exploring strengths and limitations of each - and the appropriate use of these tools relative to other assessment components. Explore Additional Assessments and standardized instruments (e.g., cognitive, adaptive, emotional/behavioral) that assist in determining adverse impact and instructional needs.

Session 6 - January 22, 2025  
Report Writing and Reviewing Results with Parents & Team
Guidance on report writing with templates and examples. Developing a profile of the child or youth, relative to developmental expectations. Meaningfully capturing strengths and abilities. Suggestions for guiding parents and caregivers through the evaluation and eligibility.   

Session 7 - February 5, 2025 
Facilitating Eligibility Determination Meetings and Navigating Complexity
Conducting an eligibility determination meeting, going through the eligibility criteria, and arriving at a team-based conclusion. Tips for navigating disagreements, understanding procedural safeguards, and parent rights (e.g., to request an independent education evaluation/IEE). Culturally Responsive Practices in autism evaluations.

Session 8 - February 19, 2025
Differentiating Autism in Girls
Understanding key differences in assessing autism in girls.

 Please send any questions to Darthea Park at dpark@pps.net