Special Education Evaluation
A special education evaluation is a comprehensive assessment to determine whether a student has a disability and needs specially designed instruction. It must be conducted by qualified professionals and cover all areas of suspected disability.
Key Rights
- ✓Parents may request an evaluation at any time in writing
- ✓Evaluations must be conducted at no cost to the family
- ✓Parents must provide informed written consent before evaluation begins
- ✓You have the right to an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) at public expense if you disagree
- ✓You must receive a copy of the evaluation report before the eligibility meeting
School Responsibilities
- Use a variety of assessment tools and strategies
- Evaluate in all areas related to the suspected disability
- Use technically sound instruments that are not discriminatory
- Complete evaluation within 60 school days of consent (California)
- Provide parents with a written report of results
- Conduct evaluations by qualified professionals
Federal Law
IDEA, 20 U.S.C. § 1414. Evaluations must be comprehensive, nondiscriminatory, and conducted by a multidisciplinary team. Schools must re-evaluate at least every three years (triennial) or sooner if conditions warrant.
California Law
CA SpecificCalifornia Education Code §§ 56320–56329. California requires evaluation within 60 school days of parental consent. The assessment plan must describe each test and procedure to be used. Parents have 15 days to sign the assessment plan.
What Parents Can Do
- 1Request an evaluation in writing and keep a copy
- 2Review the assessment plan carefully before signing
- 3Ask questions about each test and what it measures
- 4Request an IEE if you disagree with the school's evaluation
- 5Bring your own evaluator's report to the eligibility meeting
Educational Information Only
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws and regulations may change. For advice about your specific situation, consult a qualified education law attorney.