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What is an IEE?
What is an IEE?
An Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) is a private evaluation of a child's educational needs by a qualified professional who is not employed by the child's school. Families may request an IEE when you disagree with the results of your child's school evaluation, if you think the evaluation done wasn't thorough enough, or if you think the disability your child has been diagnosed with is incorrect.
Know your rights
Know your rights
California Education Code Section 56329(b) gives parents of students with disabilities the right to obtain an independent educational evaluation (IEE) at public expense. This right applies if the parent disagrees with an assessment made by the local educational agency (LEA) or district within the last two years.
Navigating IEP meetings: Mapping common concerns to solutions
Navigating IEP meetings: Mapping common concerns to solutions
Concern: Lack of progress
Concern: Lack of progress
Solution: Please ask for regular updates that are backed by data to substantiate specific claims of progress or lack thereof.
Concern: Disagreements on goals
Concern: Disagreements on goals
Solution: Suggest a compromise or additional evaluations to gather more data.
Concern: Inadequate services
Concern: Inadequate services
Solution: Provide evidence of need and suggest alternative or additional services.
Concern: Communication barriers
Concern: Communication barriers
Solution: Establish regular communication channels and request meetings with specific staff members if necessary.
How to ensure effective advocacy during IEP meetings
How to ensure effective advocacy during IEP meetings
- Prepare thoroughly
Review the IEP: Understand the current goals, accommodations, and modifications.
Gather Evidence: Bring any relevant documents, such as assessments, doctor's notes, or examples of your child's work.
- Communicate clearly
Express Concerns: Clearly articulate your concerns and the reasons behind them.
Stay Focused: Keep the conversation focused on your child’s needs and progress.
- Stay calm and professional
Manage Emotions: Try to remain calm and composed, even if you feel frustrated.
Be Respectful: Maintain a respectful tone to foster a collaborative atmosphere.
- Ask questions
Clarification: If something is unclear, ask for clarification.
Specifics: Ask for specific examples and explanations about how goals will be achieved.
- Know your rights
Familiarize Yourself: Understand your legal rights under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
Advocate: Don’t hesitate to advocate for your child’s rights and needs
- Seek support
Bring an Advocate: Consider bringing an educational advocate with experience in special education classrooms and administration, who also has knowledge of Alternative Dispute Resolution and federal IDEA law.
- Follow up
Recap: Send a follow-up email summarizing what was discussed and any agreed-upon actions.
Monitor Progress: Keep track of your child’s progress and communicate regularly with the school.
Get support from a dedicated advocate
Get support from a dedicated advocate
If you're interested in an Independent Educational Evaluation by an impartial, third-party professional unaffiliated with your child's school district, please complete the form below to begin the application process.
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