Introduction

Discuss a problem.

Request an initial evaluation for special education services.

Request a meeting to review the IEP.

Request a change of placement.

Request records.

Request an independent evaluation.

Request a due process hearing.

Write a follow-up letter.

Give positive feedback.

Q: What might be some reasons for requesting an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) at public expense?

A: It is not uncommon for families to feel that their child may need additional tests or feel that the school's testing results did not accurately describe the child. Parents may want additional medical examinations or may be interested in areas the school staff did not test. You can, therefore, always have your child tested outside the school system.

However, if you expect the school to pay for an IEE, then you will need to request this BEFORE any independent testing is done. Some reasons the school may accept financial responsibility for an independent evaluation include:

• The original evaluation was incorrect;
  
• The original evaluation was not done in your child's native language;
  
• The original evaluation was incomplete and additional tests are needed;
  
• The evaluation could not be done with the needed accommodations, for example in Braille or administered by someone who signs.

Today's Date (include month, day, and year)
Your Full Return Address

Name of Director of Special Education
Full Address

Dear (name of Director),

My son/daughter, (give full name), who is currently attending (name of school, grade, teacher) was evaluated for special education services (give month and year of this evaluation). I am writing to inform you that I disagree with the testing, and I would like to have my child reevaluated. I am requesting an Independent Educational Evaluation at public expense, for the following reasons:

[briefly list your reason(s), being very specific].

I would like this Independent Educational Evaluation to be done as soon as possible. Please send me copies of the school's guidelines for this. My daytime telephone number is (000) 000-0000.

Sincerely yours,

Your full name