What does IDEA require in terms of individual evaluations?

The requirement that evaluations must be comprehensive and based on multiple assessments is fundamental to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). IDEA emphasizes that evaluations should provide a complete and well-rounded understanding of a child's abilities, strengths, and needs. Comprehensive evaluations involve gathering data from a variety of sources, which can include standardized tests, parent and teacher observations, and other relevant information to create a holistic picture of the child's educational and developmental requirements.

This approach helps ensure that the evaluation is not biased or limited, as relying on a single method of testing can lead to an incomplete or inaccurate understanding of a student’s needs. By incorporating multiple assessment tools and methods, educators and specialists can better identify any disabilities and tailor educational interventions accordingly, ensuring that students receive the specialized support they need to succeed in their education.