Who handles the referral system for children older than three years of age?

The Department of Education handles the referral system for children older than three years of age because it is responsible for the educational needs and services for children within that age group. This department plays a critical role in assessing and providing necessary educational interventions for children who may have developmental delays or disabilities.

In the context of early childhood education, the Department of Education coordinates with various agencies to ensure that children receive appropriate services and support that cater to their educational needs. This includes managing referrals for special education services, making assessments, and overseeing individualized education plans (IEPs) for children who require additional assistance.

While other departments, such as the Department of Mental Health and the Department of Health, are involved in broader health and mental health support, they do not specifically handle the educational referral processes for this age group. The local school district collaborates with the Department of Education but ultimately falls under its jurisdiction regarding referral systems. Thus, the Department of Education is the correct choice because it directly oversees the educational framework that provides early intervention and support services for children over three years old.