If a child is referred for special education, the parents are automatically members of the TEAM as it addresses the child's needs. A special education TEAM Chairperson leads the team and is responsible for reviewing referrals, arranging for evaluations and recommending programs and services for children with disabilities. TEAMS must ensure that students' Individualized Education Programs enable them to progress in the general (regular) curriculum. Parents and teachers provide valuable information to assist the TEAM in making decisions about a child's strengths, appropriate programs and services, and placement to meet the child's unique needs. 

Each child’s Special Education TEAM must include the following:

• the parent(s) of the child;
• at least one regular education teacher of the student, if the child is, or may be, participating in the regular education environment;
• at least one special education teacher, or if appropriate, at least one special education provider (i.e. related service provider) of the student- typically the liaison;
• a representative of the school district who is qualified to provide, or supervise the provision of specially designed instruction to meet the student's unique needs, and who is knowledgeable about the general education curriculum and district resources- the TEAM Chairperson;
• an individual who can interpret the instructional implications of evaluation results;
• at the discretion of the parent or school district, any other individuals who have knowledge or special expertise regarding the student, including related service personnel as appropriate;
• the student, when appropriate (transition goals begin for students age 14 and older).