TEAM Resource Library Topic: CIRCUIT Referral
The Centralized Intake and Referral/Consultant Unified Intervention Team (CIRCUIT) responds to referral requests made by individuals concerned about the appropriateness of a child’s education in a public school. If there is a concern that a child is not receiving an appropriate education given the established support systems in place, then a CIRCUIT referral may be made.
Arkansas has a team of CIRCUIT consultants trained specifically to provide intervention support to children in public schools. These professional special education consultants travel around Arkansas responding to referral requests made by parents, guardians, caregivers, school personnel, or any other concerned party. Their goal is to help ensure that children with disabilities (ages 3-21) receive a free, appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment.
Vision Support
Some CIRCUIT consultants provide Educational Services for the Visually Impaired (ESVI). A request for vision consultation services should be submitted to CIRCUIT if 1) a medical report from an ophthalmologist or optometrist indicates that the student’s vision is 20/70 or less in the better eye with correction or 2) the student’s visual field is 20 degrees or less. Vision consultants provide Functional Vision Assessments and Learning Media Assessments. They make recommendations for vision adaptations and modifications which can help a child better access learning materials. Consultants may recommend use of low vision devices, adaptive mobility devices and canes, large print or Braille books, assistive equipment and other materials. Visit www.esvi.org for more information.
How to make a CIRCUIT Referral Request
Referrals can be made online. An automatic email confirmation will be sent certifying that the request has been received. If the request is approved, then an area CIRCUIT Unit will receive the service request. CIRCUIT professionals will respond by telephone or email within two weeks of receiving the service request. CIRCUIT consultants may request copies of related documents such as IEPs, behavior plans, evaluations, eye exams, or more.