While there are several factors that
affect special education placement, teachers often act as «gatekeepers» since they are often the first ones who refer students for special education.
Children enter school with different levels of skill, and these initial differences often
affect children's subsequent language growth, cognitive development, literacy and academic achievement.6, 7,8 Children who exhibit delays at the onset of schooling are at risk for early academic difficulties and are also more likely to experience grade retention,
special education placement, and failure to complete high school.9, 10,11