Disagreement with School Evaluation
When the school’s evaluation doesn’t reflect your child’s needs, what’s next? Here’s how parents can use their right to request an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) and ensure their child gets the right support.
A Real-Life Story: When the School Said “Everything’s Fine”
Maria, a mother of 9-year-old Ethan, noticed he struggled for hours with reading at home. But the school’s evaluation said he was “within average limits” and didn’t qualify for support. Trusting her instincts, she requested an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE). The IEE revealed that Ethan had dyslexia. With this insight, the school revised his IEP—finally giving him the support he needed.
Top Reasons Parents Disagree with School Evaluations
| Reason | % of Parents |
|---|---|
| Incomplete Testing | 42% |
| Disagree with Eligibility | 35% |
| Outdated Tools | 28% |
| Bias/Subjectivity | 22% |
What Parents Should Know Before Requesting an IEE
📜 You Don’t Have to Justify Your Disagreement
Parents don’t need to explain why they disagree. A simple written statement is enough to request an IEE.
💰 The School Covers the Cost
In most cases, the district pays for the independent evaluation—making IEEs accessible to all families.
📅 Timelines Matter
Schools must respond “without unnecessary delay.” Reports are usually completed within 30 days.
👨👩👧 You’re Involved in the Process
Parents help choose the evaluator and can request focus areas the school may have missed.
Remember: You Have Rights as a Parent
It can feel intimidating when a school evaluation doesn’t reflect what you see at home. But as a parent, you have powerful rights under special education law. You are not a passive observer—you are an equal partner in the decision-making process.
- ✔️ You can question or challenge school findings at any time.
- ✔️ You have the right to request an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE).
- ✔️ You can choose your own qualified evaluator, not just the school’s.
- ✔️ You have the right to bring these results into the IEP meeting.
Steps to Request an IEE
Put It in Writing
Write a short statement: “I disagree and request an IEE.”
Submit to the District
Send your written request to your child’s school or district office.
Select Your Evaluator
Choose a qualified professional. The district usually covers the cost.
Have Us Step In to Help
If you’re feeling stuck after a school evaluation, you don’t have to take the next steps alone. At CAS, we specialize in guiding families through the Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) process. From helping you frame your request, to conducting the evaluation, to sitting with you at the IEP meeting — we’re with you every step of the way.
- ✔️ We help you write and submit your IEE request
- ✔️ We provide comprehensive, unbiased evaluations
- ✔️ We attend IEP meetings to advocate alongside you
- ✔️ We ensure the district takes your child’s needs seriously
IEE FAQs
Who can request an IEE?
Parents and school districts can both request an IEE at public expense.
How long does an IEE take?
Most IEEs are completed in about 30 days.
What does an IEE include?
A full evaluation in the requested areas plus a clear, parent-friendly report.
Will you attend the IEP meeting?
Yes, evaluators can attend and explain findings to support collaboration.
Do you coordinate with the district?
Yes, CAS shares reports and answers district questions as needed.