Prereferral intervention is described as strategies intended to do what?

• A. Increase referrals to SPED
• B. Decrease referrals to SPED
• C. Change screening criteria
• D. Delay evaluations

Answer: (B)

Prereferral interventions are early, targeted supports provided within the general education setting to help a student succeed before a special education referral is made. The idea is to address learning or behavior challenges with instructional changes, additional practice, and data-based progress monitoring, so many issues can be resolved without moving toward SPED evaluation. By implementing strategies like differentiated instruction, small-group support, accommodations, and collaboration with families and teachers, the team determines whether the student can meet goals with these supports. If improvements occur, the referral process isn’t needed; if not, a referral for evaluation may proceed. So the aim is to reduce unnecessary SPED referrals by solving issues within general education first.