Initial Evaluation: Which parties may request an initial evaluation?

Initial Evaluation: Which parties may request an initial evaluation?

• A. Parents
• B. State Department of Education
• C. School District Staff
• D. Parents, State Department of Education, State Agency, and School District Staff

Answer: (D)

Any party with a legitimate interest in a child’s education can request an initial evaluation. Parents are the child’s primary advocates and may request an assessment if they suspect a disability. The local education agency (the school district) has a legal obligation to evaluate when there are concerns about a child’s need for special education. State-level actors, such as the State Department of Education or a State Agency, may request evaluations to ensure compliance, oversee programs, or address issues that require state involvement. Because all of these groups can initiate the process, the option that includes all of them is correct. When a request is made, the district must obtain parental consent and conduct a timely, multi-disciplinary evaluation to determine eligibility for special education services.

Any party with a legitimate interest in a child’s education can request an initial evaluation. Parents are the child’s primary advocates and may request an assessment if they suspect a disability. The local education agency (the school district) has a legal obligation to evaluate when there are concerns about a child’s need for special education. State-level actors, such as the State Department of Education or a State Agency, may request evaluations to ensure compliance, oversee programs, or address issues that require state involvement. Because all of these groups can initiate the process, the option that includes all of them is correct. When a request is made, the district must obtain parental consent and conduct a timely, multi-disciplinary evaluation to determine eligibility for special education services.