Special Education
Fort Wayne Community Schools (FWCS) provides a comprehensive continuum of special education services for students ages 3 to 21, grounded in a commitment to high standards and equitable outcomes for all students with exceptionalities. Special education in FWCS includes specially designed instruction and related services that address each student’s unique disability-related needs while ensuring meaningful access to and participation in their educational program. Services are delivered across a full range of settings, from support within the general education classroom to self-contained and highly specialized programs, based on the intensity of support required.
FWCS staff, including both special education and general education personnel, work collaboratively to provide evidence-based instruction and services that align individual goals with access to the general curriculum. This unified approach ensures that students are not only supported academically and behaviorally, but are also provided maximum opportunities to engage, learn and grow alongside age-appropriate peers in inclusive, supportive environments.
Call Special Education Questions 260-467-1110
Call School Psychology Questions 260-467-1145
Requesting an Educational Evaluation
Parents/guardians may request an educational evaluation to determine if your child is in need of special education services. If already enrolled in FWCS, please contact your child’s teacher or principal if you would like to request an evaluation. If you are new to the district, please call 260-467-1145.
If you request an educational evaluation, a member of the FWCS evaluation team will review your request and determine its appropriateness based on your child’s educational needs and academic progress. The school has ten instructional days to notify you in writing regarding their decision as to whether or not to conduct the evaluation.
Procedural Safeguards
Notice of Procedural Safeguards
Medical Homebound
Consent to Release Medical Information- This document must be provided when applying for medical homebound.
Application for Medical Homebound- Document for students who may require intermittent or full-time medical homebound.
Additional Resources
Finder- A comprehensive directory of services, programs, and helpful resources for the disability community.
InSource- Provides free support to parents of children with disabilities, helping them navigate the special education process in the state of Indiana.
Application for Developmental Disabilities (State Form 55069)
New to FWCS?
EVERYTHING NEEDED TO COMPLETE ENROLLMENT
- Parent/Guardian Information
- Student Information
- Proof of Residency (Last 30 Days) – Provide Two
- Health Records
- Legal Documents (If Applicable)
- Special Education
Parent/Guardian Information
Student Information
Proof of Residency (Last 30 Days) – Provide Two
Health Records
Legal Documents (If Applicable)
Special Education
Pre-K
Children ages 3-5 who live within FWCS may be referred by a parent or through First Steps for a developmental screening or evaluation to determine eligibility for services. The FWCS evaluation team reviews all available information to decide if an evaluation is appropriate based on the child’s individual needs.
Services are provided at no cost for eligible children.
Beyond the Classroom
Our special education programs go beyond the classroom to create meaningful, inclusive experiences for every student. From hands-on learning opportunities to social and community connections, these programs are designed to help students build confidence, develop skills and feel a true sense of belonging. Here are a few examples of programs and events happening throughout the district.
