Understanding Your Right to an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE)

If you disagree with the results of your child's evaluation completed by the school district, you have important rights under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). One of those rights is the ability to request an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE).

An Independent Educational Evaluation is conducted by a qualified professional who is not employed by your child's school district. It provides a second opinion that can offer additional insight into your child's strengths, challenges, and educational needs.

What Is an Independent Educational Evaluation?

An Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) is a comprehensive assessment performed by an independent evaluator. Parents often request an IEE when they have concerns that the school's evaluation may not fully reflect their child's needs or when they would like another professional perspective before making educational decisions.

The goal of an IEE is to provide objective information that can help determine the most appropriate educational supports and services for your child.

Who Pays for an IEE?

If you disagree with the school's evaluation, you have the right to request an IEE at public expense, which means the school district may be responsible for paying for the evaluation.

When an IEE is requested, the school district generally has two options:

• Approve the request and pay for the independent evaluation.

• Initiate a due process hearing to demonstrate that its original evaluation was appropriate.

Even if the school district believes its evaluation was accurate, parents may still choose to obtain an independent evaluation at their own expense.

What Happens After the Evaluation?

If the Independent Educational Evaluation meets the school district's evaluation criteria, the results must be considered when making decisions about your child's educational program and services.

While the school is required to consider the findings, it is not automatically required to adopt every recommendation. However, the evaluation can provide valuable information during IEP meetings and may also be used during dispute resolution or due process proceedings if necessary.

How Many IEEs Can You Request?

Parents are generally entitled to one Independent Educational Evaluation at public expense for each school evaluation they disagree with.

If additional evaluations are desired beyond that, families may choose to pursue private evaluations at their own expense.

Why Families Request an IEE

Parents may seek an Independent Educational Evaluation for many reasons, including:

• Wanting a second opinion about their child's educational needs.
• Concerns that the school's evaluation was incomplete or inaccurate.
• Questions about eligibility for special education services.
• Needing additional recommendations for classroom supports or therapy services.
• Preparing for an Individualized Education Program (IEP) meeting.

How can ACT Therapy Services help?

At ACT Therapy Services, our experienced clinicians provide comprehensive Independent Educational Evaluations designed to help families better understand their child's learning, communication, and developmental needs. Our evaluations are conducted independently and include detailed recommendations that can support educational planning and collaboration with your child's school.

If you are considering requesting an Independent Educational Evaluation or have questions about the process, our team is here to help guide you every step of the way.

Contact ACT Therapy Services today to learn more about our Independent Educational Evaluation services and how we can support your family.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I request an Independent Educational Evaluation if I disagree with the school's evaluation?

Yes. Under IDEA, parents have the right to request an Independent Educational Evaluation if they disagree with the school's evaluation of their child.

Does the school have to pay for the evaluation?

The school district may pay for the evaluation if it agrees to your request. Alternatively, it may initiate a due process hearing to defend its original evaluation.

Will the school have to accept the results?

The school must consider the results of a qualified Independent Educational Evaluation when making decisions about your child's educational services, although it is not required to implement every recommendation.

Who performs an Independent Educational Evaluation?

An IEE must be completed by a qualified professional who is independent of the school district responsible for your child's education.