Initial Placement

If the evaluation and IEP are acceptable, you sign a placement statement that allows the child to begin special education service. If there are concerns with the school evaluation, an independent evaluation can be requested at no expense to the family. This may be done by some other school personnel or by an outside evaluator who meets the necessary criteria. Talk to the Special Education Director (545-2094) or call the Parent Information Specialist (PIN) with the Department of Education (800-352-4558) for assistance with locating an outside evaluator.

You may bring anyone to the placement meeting who can provide support or additional evidence to the team. IEP teams are required to consider the information provided by an outside source. The team is not required to implement the findings or follow the recommendations, but should have all of the information available when making a decision.