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How to get the right kind of evaluation to determine whether or not my child is eligible for special education services.
October 07, 2011 at 2:18 PM
maaps Special Education E-Newsletter Volume 1.2
How can I be sure that the evaluation is comprehensive (e.g. will cover all the relevant areas) and be delivered by a competent clinician?
The first step in the process of determining if your child should receive special education services is the special education evaluation. The evaluation should examine all areas of concern and provide a detailed description of your child’s educational, social and emotional needs. The evaluation should answer the following three questions:
What areas must an evaluation cover?
The clinician will use a variety of evaluation tools, based on your child’s individual needs and areas of concern. These areas of concern may include an evaluation of how your child communicates and understands language, your child’s level of educational development, and an assessment of how your child thinks, behaves, and adapts to changes.
How do I find a qualified professional to conduct the evaluation?
Once you request an evaluation, the school has the right and obligation to find a suitable professional to conduct the evaluation. If the school does not have a qualified person on staff to administer specific assessments, the district has an obligation to seek a qualified person outside of the school district at school expense (e.g., many schools do not have the technology to test for central auditory processing disorder and must seek outside assistance for this assessment).
What are the evaluation requirements?
If you are concerned with your child’s ability to participate effectively in his/her school program, you have the right to request an evaluation of your child. Always make your request to the school district in writing.
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