What actions can parents take if they disagree with the school’s evaluation results?

When parents disagree with the school's evaluation results, one of the most appropriate actions they can take is to request an independent educational evaluation (IEE). This process allows parents to seek an assessment conducted by a qualified evaluator who is not employed by the school district. The IEE provides an opportunity to obtain a different perspective on their child’s needs, and this information can be critical in ensuring that the child receives appropriate services. Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), parents have the right to request an IEE at the school’s expense if they believe the school’s evaluation is inadequate.

Pursuing legal action against the school could be an option, but it is often a more confrontational approach that may not necessarily lead to a swift resolution of the disagreement about the evaluation. Filing a complaint with the state education agency is another possible action, though this may initiate a formal process that could take some time to resolve and might not directly address the individual child's evaluation needs. Accepting the results without question does not serve the best interests of the child, especially when parents have concerns about their accuracy. Therefore, requesting an independent educational evaluation provides a constructive way for parents to advocate for their child while seeking clarity on the evaluation process.