Practical Guide for Parents: Enrolling a Child with Special Educational Needs in School

Enrolling a child in the first grade is an emotional milestone for every family. For parents of children with special educational needs, this process may involve additional questions, concerns, or administrative steps. However, proper information and early planning can make this stage a smoother and safer experience for both the child and the parents. Below are some useful recommendations to help navigate the school enrollment process more easily.

1. Identifying the child’s needs

   Observe and record any difficulties in learning, communication, behavior, or development that the child may encounter. Consult the kindergarten, medical professionals, or other specialists who have supported the child.

2. Choosing an educational institution based on the following criteria: catchment area school (proximity to the child’s residence); availability of support services within the school (Resource Center for Inclusive Education, psychologist, speech therapist, support teacher, educational psychologist).

3. Consulting with the selected school administration and visiting the premises

   Visit the school together with your child. Inquire about:

• the availability of support services;
• possible environmental adaptations.

4. Scheduling a comprehensive assessment/reassessment of the child

Contact the Territorial Psychopedagogical Assistance Structure (SAP) to request a comprehensive assessment or reassessment. Contact details are available via this link.

This evaluation determines:

• the child’s current level of development (knowledge, skills, needs) and ensures a smooth transition to school;
• the form of inclusion for the child;
• the support services required.

5. Preparing the enrollment file for the first grade:

• application from parents or legal guardians;
• copy of the parent’s/legal guardian’s ID;
• copy of the child’s birth certificate;
• evaluation/re-evaluation report of the child’s development;
• medical certificate issued before 1 September (Form No. 027/e);
• certificate of disability degree issued by the National Council for Determining Work Capacity.

6. Submitting the enrollment file to the school and confirming admission

The file must be submitted either to the school’s secretariat or online during the following periods:

• March 3 – April 30 (first stage);
• May 19 – May 30 (second stage);
• August 20 – August 30 (individual review of applications).

After the completion of each enrollment stage, the school will publish the list of admitted children. Confirm whether your child has been accepted. In some cases, the school may request written confirmation from the parents. Pay close attention to notifications received! Should you encounter difficulties, seek support from specialists within the territorial psychopedagogical assistance structures.

7. Establishing Communication and Collaboration with the Future Teacher

   Attend parent meetings organized by the school. These sessions will provide information on the adaptation program, required school supplies, uniforms (if applicable), and other important details.

8. Preparing the Child for First Grade

   Talk to your child about the upcoming changes. Shop for school supplies together, visit the school, and encourage them. A calm and positive start makes a significant difference!

9. Maintaining Ongoing Collaboration with the School

   Throughout the school year:

• stay in contact with the teacher, support staff, psychologist, and school principal;
• participate in assessments, meetings, and school activities;
• communicate openly about the child’s progress and challenges.

All children who turn 7 years old before the beginning of the school year, regardless of ability level, are entitled to attend school.

School is the place where children’s dreams take shape!

Children living in the capital can be enrolled through the online platform: https://escoala.chisinau.md. The child’s residence must correspond to the designated school district.

Contacts of SAP Chișinău: 

Phone: 067 771 755; 067 771 756; 022 22 24 37
Address: Ștefan cel Mare și Sfânt Blvd. 169 (Artico Center).