Referral Process

Iowa School for the Deaf is a referral-based school. Students’ Individual Education Family Service Plans (IFSP) or Individual Education Programs (IEP) need to state the placement for a student at Iowa School for the Deaf.

For Parents, Families and Students:

  1. Contact your local school district and tell them of your interest.
  2. Contact ISD: Preschool – 8th grade 712.366.3227 | 9th – 12th grade and 4PLUS 712.366.3237.
  3. Tour ISD campus with your school district staff, AEA/ESU staff.
  4. Work with your school district to schedule an IEP meeting. Discussion regarding placement occurs here.
    The following individuals should attend the meeting: Student, parents/guardians, AEA/ESU staff, local school staff, Iowa School for the Deaf staff, others as needed.
  5. Complete registration packet for Iowa School for the Deaf.

For School Systems:

  1. Contact ISD: Preschool – 8th grade 712.366.3227 | 9th – 12th grade and 4PLUS 712.366.3237.
  2. Tour ISD campus with family and AEA/ESU staff.
  3. Provide ISD the following records: Current IEP, audiogram, 3-year evaluation and transcripts (for high school students).
  4. Host IEP meeting.
    The following should attend: Student, parents/guardians, AEA/ESU staff, local school staff, Iowa School for the Deaf staff, others as needed.

For AEAs, ESUs (Nebraska) and Referral Agencies:

  1. Contact ISD: Preschool – 8th grade 712.366.3227 | 9th – 12th grade and 4PLUS 712.366.3237.
  2. Tour ISD campus with family and school district staff.
  3. Attend IEP meeting.