What should happen if developmental delays in a preschool-identified student continue beyond age nine?

If developmental delays in a preschool-identified student continue beyond age nine, the appropriate action is to evaluate the student to redefine the qualifying disability. This process is essential as it allows educational professionals to reassess the student's needs and determine whether the current classification remains applicable or if a different educational approach is necessary.

Developmental delays can evolve, and as children grow, their needs may change due to various factors, including their progress in learning skills and social behaviors. Reevaluating the student can help ensure that they receive the most suitable support and services tailored to their current developmental stage. This continuous evaluation process is critical in special education to ensure students receive the proper interventions and accommodations that align with their unique needs.

In contrast, automatic placement in special education or dismissal from special services without appropriate evaluation does not consider the individual growth and change of the student and could hinder their educational progress. Similarly, simply providing more classroom interventions without a structured evaluation may not adequately address the underlying issues. Therefore, thorough evaluation is key to accurately understanding each student’s situation.