You have requested a school evaluation. Here is a review of what that process looks like and what that process entails.
THE SCHOOL EVALUATION
WHAT IS IT?
A school evaluation is a formal process used to assess a child’s academic, cognitive, and behavioral abilities to determine if they have a learning disability or other special needs that require support. This evaluation is conducted by a team of educational professionals and is free of charge for parents under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) in public schools.
WHO CAN REQUEST AN EVALUATION?
Parent(s) can request an evaluation if they have concerns about their child’s progress. Or it can be initiated by the school if the school have concerns based on observations and/or test results.
WHAT DOES A SCHOOL EVALUATION INCLUDE?
A comprehensive school evaluation involves collecting data through a variety of methods. These methods typically consists of:
Cognitive Testing
Measures a child’s intellectual abilities (e.g., problem-solving, memory, reasoning).
Academic Assessments
Evaluates skills in reading, writing, math, and comprehension.
Speech & Language Evaluation (if needed)
Assesses communication skills, including understanding and expression.
Occupational Therapy Evaluation (if needed)
Examines fine motor skills, handwriting, and sensory processing.
Behavioral & Emotional Assessments
Identifies attention issues, anxiety, or social difficulties.
Classroom Observations
A specialist observes how the child learns in a real classroom setting.
Parent & Teacher Input
Parents and teachers complete questionnaires or provide insights about the child’s learning and behavior.
HOW TO REQUEST A SCHOOL EVALUATION
Submit a Written Request
Parents must send a formal letter to the school principal, counselor, or special education director requesting an evaluation.
School Review & Consent
The school reviews the request and asks for parental consent to proceed.
Testing & Observations
The school conducts assessments, which can take up to 60 days.
Results & Meeting
A meeting is scheduled to review the results and determine eligibility for services.
Next Steps
If eligible, the child may receive an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan for tailored learning accommodations.
WHY IS A SCHOOL EVALUATION IMPORTANT?
~Identifies learning challenges early
~Provides access to special education services
~Helps create strategies for success
~Ensures a child gets the support they need
KEY CONSIDERATIONS
Free Evaluation:
Public schools are required to provide free evaluations to students who may need special education services, as mandated by the Individuals with Disabilities in Education Act (IDEA).
Parental Consent:
Parents must provide informed written consent before a school can conduct an evaluation.