Navigating special education in Plano ISD requires understanding the district's strict adherence to Board Policy EHBA(LEGAL) regarding Child Find mandates. While initial inquiries begin through the "Lift Off to Learning" Help Line (469-752-4299), the legal timeline for a Full Individual and Initial Evaluation (FIIE) — 45 school days — officially triggers only upon written request to the campus principal at your home school, such as Plano West Senior High or Rice Middle School.
PISD is unique in its use of dedicated separate campuses for specific developmental stages. For families with children ages 3-5, Beaty Early Childhood School (and its counterparts, Pearson and Isaacs) serves as a specialized hub for early intervention. For older students, the Solomon Center for Adult Transition provides independent living and vocational skills for students ages 18-21.
Plano-Specific Program Models
Unlike other districts, Plano ISD uses specialized program designations that dictate staffing and curriculum levels:
- RISE (Reaching Independence through Structured Education): Focused on students with significant cognitive and behavioral needs.
- EAC (Essential Academics Class): Designed for students requiring a modified curriculum while remaining on a comprehensive campus.
- Grievances: Under Board Policy FNG(LOCAL), any disputes regarding IEP implementation must first be filed with the campus principal before escalating to Executive Director Kristy Carr at the Shiloh Center.