Initial Evaluation vs Reevaluation

Initial Evaluation 

Is conducted if there is a suspicion of a disability in a specific area of concern.  Within an initial evaluation, the team decides whether or not to move forward with the evaluation process for special education and related services.   Initial Evaluations are typically conducted by the Student Services Coordinator (SSC). 

Reevaluation 

Is conducted to determine if the student, who is already eligible, continues to be eligible for special education services and related services, and to help the team gather needed information to make decisions related to the programming and placement of the student.  Reevaluations are typically conducted by the special education teacher. 

When might we conduct a reevaluation?

  -A Students 3 Year Triennial Reevaluation
-Teacher or Parent Request
Student’s needs have changed or related services may be necessary (Programming)
New information/data becomes available (i.e. assessment done by a private provider
-Change in Eligibility (change in category or rescission)

An Initial Evaluation and a Reevaluation both consist of 3 meetings; Evaluation Meeting, Eligibility Meeting and IEP meeting (if eligible for special education).