MN SF1444

Clarifies the definition of "child with a disability" by updating terminology to include deaf or hard-of-hearing, blind or visually impaired, deafblind, developmental cognitive disability, and emotional or behavioral disorder, with effective date July 1, 2011.

Modifies special education service requirements to apply from birth until age 21 or receipt of a regular high school diploma, whichever comes first, and clarifies that if a child turns 21 during the school year, services continue until the last day of that school year or diploma receipt.

Creates a new dispute resolution process requiring the district where a child first attempts to enroll to provide special education and related services if the child's district of residence is disputed, pending commissioner resolution.

Amends conciliation conference procedures to require districts to offer a conference within two business days of receiving a parent's objection and hold the conference within ten calendar days, with the conference memorandum being admissible in subsequent proceedings.

Requires districts to identify, locate, and evaluate children with disabilities who need special education and related services, with local health, education, and social service agencies referring children under age five who may need services.