Tulsa Public Schools hosting free special education screening events

May 16, 2026 - 01:52

Tulsa Public Schools is set to host a series of free screening events aimed at identifying developmental and learning needs in young children. The district, officially known as Independent School District No. 1 of Tulsa County, will offer these assessments to families who have concerns about their child's growth, speech, motor skills, or academic readiness. The screenings are designed for children from birth through age five, though older students may also be eligible depending on specific circumstances.

The events are part of the district's broader effort to connect families with early intervention services before a child enters kindergarten. Special education staff will conduct brief evaluations in areas such as communication, hearing, vision, and social-emotional development. If a potential delay is detected, the team will provide guidance on next steps, including referrals for more comprehensive testing or enrollment in district programs.

Officials emphasize that the screenings are not diagnostic but serve as an initial checkpoint. Parents do not need to bring any documentation, and the events are open to all Tulsa residents, regardless of whether their child is currently enrolled in a public school. The district plans to hold multiple sessions across different locations through the spring to accommodate working families.

This initiative comes as Oklahoma continues to see a rise in demand for early childhood special education services. By removing cost and access barriers, Tulsa Public Schools hopes to catch developmental issues early, when intervention is often most effective. Families interested in attending are encouraged to check the district's calendar for specific dates and neighborhood sites.