The Child Study Team (CST) is a multidisciplinary educational team that is responsible for locating, identifying, evaluating, determining eligibility, and developing an Individualized Education Program (IEP) for students suspected of having educational disabilities.

The Child Study Team may conduct an evaluation of a student, with parental consent, to determine if the student has a disability which impacts the student's ability to learn as delineated by the New Jersey Department of Education, under the direction of Individuals with Disability Education Act (IDEA).

Upon completion of a comprehensive evaluation of the student, the Child Study Team, with the input of the parent(s) and teacher(s), will determine whether the student is eligible for special education and related services. If the student is found to be eligible for services, the Child Study Team, in collaboration with the parent, a general education teacher, a special education teacher, and a related service provider (when applicable), will develop an Individualized Education Program (IEP) for the student.

The New Jersey Department of Education requires that the Child Study Team includes a school psychologist, a learning disabilities teacher-consultant, and a school social worker. Other members will join the essential three members of the CST when necessary and deemed appropriate by members of the CST and/or IEP teams.

A School Psychologist conducts psychological assessments, and provides consultative, counseling, and case management services for students in accordance with federal, state, and local mandates. Extensive knowledge of academic and behavioral interventions are applied as needed. They continually consult with school personnel, families, and outside agencies. Some responsibilities include:

• cognitive and behavioral assessments of students to help in the determination of eligibility for special education and related services

• case management and Individualized Education Program (IEP) development

• counseling support for IEP-mandated special education students

• crisis intervention

• Intervention and Referral Services (I&RS) consultation

A Learning Disabilities Teacher-Consultant functions as an educational specialist, instructional consultant, and Child Study Team member. The LDT-C must have the professional preparation and certification to conduct assessments, analyze test data, and determine student eligibility for special education and related services. As part of the Child Study Team, the LDT-C is required to understand special education law, plan and facilitate the development of programs for children with learning differences, recommend successful instructional techniques, assist in the implementation of best instructional practices, and provide professional development for staff and parents. Some responsibilities include:

• case management and Individualized Education Program (IEP) development

• monitor student progress

• Intervention and Referral Services (I&RS) consultation

A School Social Worker plays a critical role in schools and educational settings helping students to enhance their emotional well-being and improve their academic performance. School Social Workers have a wide range of job functions such as:

• Conducting social history assessments

• Developing and implementing Individualized Educational Plans

• Providing crisis management services, including assessing for safety

• Advocating for student services and students’ best interests

• Providing case management services and counseling

• Providing training and workshops to teachers, school staff and parents