Are You Curious About Out of District Placements, Here's What You Need to Know

As advocates for children with special needs, we’re often asked about the process and benefits of an out-of-district placement. When a child isn’t making progress or their needs aren’t being met in their current school setting, it may be time to start the conversation about this option.

An out-of-district placement is considered when a student’s team determines that the student’s needs can’t be adequately supported within their current school. This decision is made through the IEP process, where a team—including parents—evaluates how best to provide Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE). While the goal is always to keep a child in the general education setting as much as possible, there are times when more intensive support is necessary to ensure the child receives an appropriate education.

Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), every student with special needs is entitled to FAPE in the LRE. While schools work hard to provide supports and services within district boundaries, there are cases where a child’s needs exceed what the district can reasonably provide.

This could include:

- More intensive academic, therapeutic, or behavioral supports

- A highly structured environment or specialized curriculum

- Extended day or year-round services

- Residential programs for students who need 24/7 care and instruction

Out-of-district placements are designed to provide these higher levels of support, offering the student the best chance at success. The district remains financially responsible for your child’s education, so in most cases, families do not pay tuition. Placement costs are typically covered by a combination of state funds and district contributions.

If you feel your child’s needs aren’t being met in their current school setting, it’s important to document your concerns and communicate them to the IEP team. When district resources are stretched thin or the necessary supports aren’t available, an out-of-district placement should be considered.

As advocates, we encourage families to be proactive in ensuring that their child’s needs are fully understood and considered during the IEP process. Don’t hesitate to request a tour of any potential programs or ask questions about the supports they offer. A well-informed decision can make a huge difference in your child’s educational experience.

If your child is struggling and you feel the current placement isn’t working, it’s your right to advocate for an out-of-district option. While out-of-district placements offer more specialized services, it’s important to carefully evaluate whether the program truly aligns with your child’s unique needs.