Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Child Study Team (CST)?
The Child Study Team (CST) is a group of school professionals who work together to understand and support students who may need special education services. A typical CST includes:
- A school psychologist
- A learning disabilities teacher-consultant
- A school social worker
They are here to help identify a child’s strengths, needs, and the best ways to support learning.
What if I think my child needs extra support?
If you’re worried about your child’s progress in school, the first step is to talk with your child’s teacher. Teachers can share observations and suggest next steps. Sometimes this may include support through the school’s Intervention & Referral Services (I&RS) Team.
If you believe your child may need more formal testing, you can request:
- A Speech Articulation Evaluation – if your concern is only about how your child pronounces sounds.
- A Child Study Team Evaluation – if you’re concerned about broader areas such as speech, language, learning, or behavior.
To request an evaluation, please write a letter that includes:
- Your name and contact information
- Your child’s name and birthdate
- The type of evaluation you are requesting
- A short summary of your concerns (if possible)
- Your original handwritten signature
Send your letter to the Office of Special Services by giving it to a school staff member or mailing it to:
Franklin Township School District
Office of Special Services
226 Quakertown Road
Quakertown, NJ 08868
What happens after I submit a request?
After your request is received, a CST member or speech therapist will contact you. Within 20 calendar days, you will be invited to an Initial Planning Meeting to talk about your concerns and decide together whether evaluations are needed.
Please note: Evaluations cannot begin without your written permission.
What is the Initial Planning Meeting?
The Initial Planning Meeting includes you, your child’s CST, and sometimes your child’s teacher. The goal is to:
- Share your concerns and your child’s background
- Give the team a chance to get to know your child’s needs
- Decide whether evaluations should take place
If evaluations are recommended, you will be asked to sign a consent form. You may give your consent at the meeting, or take time to review before deciding.
What does the Evaluation Process involve?
If evaluations move forward, the CST has 90 days to complete them and hold an Eligibility Meeting. Evaluations may include:
- A psychological evaluation (school psychologist)
- A learning strengths and needs evaluation (learning consultant)
- A speech and language evaluation (speech pathologist)
- A social history interview with you (school social worker)
You’ll receive copies of all reports before the Eligibility Meeting. At the meeting, the team will review results with you and determine if your child qualifies for special education services.
If your child is eligible, an Individualized Education Program (IEP) will be created. Services can only begin once you give written consent.
What services are available for preschool children?
If your preschool child qualifies for services, options may include:
- Participation in integrated community programs
- Placement in a specialized preschool class
- Related services such as speech, occupational, or physical therapy
- Extended school year services, if needed
Supports are always tailored to your child’s individual needs.
What is my role as a parent/guardian?
You know your child best! Your insight is essential in helping the CST understand your child’s social, emotional, language, and learning development. By sharing your observations and concerns, you help the team create the most complete picture of your child.
If your child qualifies for services, you’ll also need to register them with the school district before services begin. Registration requires:
- Child’s birth certificate
- Immunization records
- Two (2) proofs of residency
(If you have questions about residency documents, please contact the School Secretary, Margret Thompson)
Being an active partner in this process ensures your child gets the support they need to grow and thrive.
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Margret Thompson
School Secretary