Before a referral is made to Mountainbrook, students are given special help at their home school.  This typically comes from the student support team (SST) and enrollment in a resource or self-contained class for students with emotionally based behavior disorders.  If more intense services are needed, a referral is sent to the school system's Special Education Supervisor who may consult with the Mountainbrook Center Coordinator.  Determination is then made whether to refer the student to Mountainbrook for additional review or to convene an individual educational placement (IEP) meeting to discuss Mountainbrook service options.

        If the decision is to refer the student, a referral packet is completed by the referring teacher and other selected personnel.  Information is requested on strategies that have been used to help the student, current medication(s), etc.  Included in the packet is a list of persons who should be invited to attend an individual educational planning (IEP) meeting.

        A behavior rating scale, the Behavior Assessment System for Children (BASC), is completed by the referring teacher.  Within 7-days a Mountainbrook staff member observes the student at the home school.  Information is then presented at an IEP meeting within 30-days, usually at the home school.  At the IEP meeting, a committee comprised of the parent, a Mountainbrook administrator, psychoeducational teacher, regular education teacher, and other invited persons, determine the nature of Mountainbrook services to meet the student's individual needs.