Special Services

In collaboration with general education, we will make a positive difference one student, one family, one classroom, and one school at a time.

The mission of the Berkeley County Office of Special Services is to ensure positive outcomes for students through innovative instruction, a strength-based focus, communication and embracing individuality.

We will utilize a growth-mindset as we meet each opportunity and challenge for success. We will share ideas, pose questions for improvement, and problem-solve solutions for our student-centered outcomes. We will encourage one another to link learning across disciplines and bring new ideas for solving problems.

Priority initiatives include:

High quality specially designed instruction provided using standards-based instruction, personalized learning, and innovative programs.
Positive outcomes for students aligned with the system of Results-Driven Accountability.
Coordinated systems of support in all BCSD classrooms for academic and social/emotional.

We consider it a privilege to serve our children with disabilities to accomplish the vision and mission of the Berkeley County School District.

Special Education Parent Handbook

English

Spanish

Portuguese

Records Request

Record Request Mailbox:

843-899-8647

Parents and students 18 years and older, please call the number above and leave a message with the following information to request records. We will return your call within 24 business hours.

Be sure to include:

Student's full name.
Date of birth.
Information you are requesting.
Your name and a phone number where you can be reached.

Districts, schools, and other facilities, please email a request for records to specialservices@bcsdschools.net.

Child Find

As a part of the state and federal obligations pertaining to Child Find, Berkeley County School District is responsible for locating and identifying children who may be eligible for services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004 (34 CFR §300.111).

As a service to the community, the district provides free developmental screenings for children ages 3 to 21 who live within the Berkeley County attendance area. These screenings may lead to a more comprehensive evaluation, if appropriate. Results of assessments are utilized in determining if a child is eligible for special education services.

Regularly scheduled Child Find Clinics are held monthly at select locations throughout the district.

If you have concerns about your child’s development, you may want to consider scheduling an appointment to have your child screened. Please contact Berkeley County School District for an appointment at (843) 899-8890.

2025-2026 Clinics:

August 22, 2025
September 19, 2025
October 17, 2025
November 14, 2025
December 12, 2025
January 23, 2025
February 20, 2026
March 20, 2026
April 17, 2026

Preschool Programs for Children with Disabilities

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (2004) and South Carolina Department of Education Policy R43-243 authorize the provision of special education services to children who meet the eligibility criteria as a child with a disability. Special education preschool programs are designed to include educational opportunities that promote school readiness and social skills development. Specially designed instruction includes preliteracy, language, and numeracy skills. In addition, behavioral/social skills and personal/adaptive development may be addressed for children who demonstrate a need in these areas.

If you have a child with a diagnosed disability or if you suspect that your child may have a disability, you may request more information by contacting Berkeley County School District at (843) 899-8890.