Chapter 5: Evaluation
Learning More About Your Child
Who is this for? This chapter is for the parents of students who have been referred for a formal evaluation as prescribed by IDEA, and for parents of students already eligible for special education services who are referred for a reevaluation.
Why is this important? IDEA contains very specific requirements for a student evaluation. Parents need to understand all aspects of the evaluation process in order to be full participants in all decisions involving their child. The evaluation results will be used to make important decisions about their child’s educational future.
What can parents do? Parents can and should actively participate in planning for their child’s evaluation. They need to understand the school’s proposed evaluation plan and ensure that a comprehensive evaluation is conducted.
 Parents may find it helpful to use the Questions to Ask About Evaluation Plans.
Words and Terms to Know
Child with a disability: A child who has a disability as defined in one of the 13 disability categories in IDEA and who needs special education and related services because of the disability; or a child aged 3 through 9 who is experiencing developmental delays.
Note: The IDEA Parent Guide was created to provide a basic understanding of the key requirements of the federal law under IDEA. The information presented here is not legal advice and should not be used as a legal resource.
|
Parent Center 
