What Do I Do If I Disagree With The Results Of My Child’s School Evaluation?
What's Next?
Once a school district conducts their own testing, parents are permitted to disagree with the school’s evaluation. Sometimes an Independent Educational Evaluation, or IEE, is necessary to identify if something was missed or if additional testing is necessary to understand the barriers to learning, as sometimes schools will use the tests they have, not what is most appropriate for the child because of budget or availability.
Parents should make an IEE request in writing, be matter of fact, and make clear they are requesting an objective, unbiased, “second opinion.” Parents do not have to explain why they disagree with the schools evaluation, but if you choose to explain, you can say they feel results are inaccurate, not comprehensive, or not a fair/true representation of child’s skills. Schools must respond to IEE requests with “undue delay” (numbers of days varies by state, often 10 days) and families are permitted one independent evaluation per discipline per year. Importantly, you can choose any provider with appropriate qualifications, the providers do not have to be on schools “list.” Of note, school observations can be very beneficial for an IEE if possible.
It is recommended that parents/caregivers need to put everything in writing and give specific examples of concerns. When you bring up a concern as a parent, always use data to back up what you are saying. Summarize phone calls in an email and confirm discussion/understanding so everything is documented. Make folders/graphs/charts and save everything you receive from the school. Familiarize yourself with special education staff and administration. Be careful not to tarnish child’s relationship with teachers or school and prioritize/choose your battles with the school. Ask teachers if accommodations are consistently being used in the classroom.
If you send emails and other form of communications and do not receive a response, you can always call an IEP meeting or request a meeting with an administrator. Additionally, it is often helpful to join your schools SEPTA/O (Special Education Parent Teacher Association/Organization) and become an advocate from within. Parent to Parent programs have been developed to provide parents access to “veteran” parents who have been through the special education process prior. Sometimes a private educational advocate or lawyer will be helpful or necessary, depending on the situation. Most importantly, know your rights, and don’t sign anything you don’t understand or don’t agree with and never be afraid to ask questions!