Considerations

When requesting a Full and Individual Evaluation (FIE) for your child, there are several important considerations for parents to keep in mind to ensure a thorough and effective evaluation process. Here are some additional factors to consider:

  1. Specific Concerns: Clearly articulate your concerns about your child’s academic, behavioral, or developmental needs. Provide specific examples of challenges your child is experiencing in school, at home, or in social situations. The more detailed information you can provide, the better equipped the evaluation team will be to assess your child’s needs comprehensively.
  2. Prior Documentation: If your child has received previous evaluations, assessments, or interventions, gather and provide any relevant documentation to the school. This includes Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), 504 plans, medical records, diagnostic reports, and any other documentation related to your child’s learning and development. Previous assessments can provide valuable information to inform the current evaluation process.
  3. Parental Observations: Share your observations and insights about your child’s strengths, challenges, and behaviors with the evaluation team. Your firsthand knowledge of your child’s abilities, preferences, and needs is invaluable and can complement the information gathered through formal assessments.
  4. Collaboration with School Personnel: Work collaboratively with school personnel, including teachers, administrators, and special education staff, to request the evaluation and provide relevant information about your child. Open communication and cooperation with the school can facilitate the evaluation process and ensure that your child’s needs are addressed effectively.
  5. Request for Specific Assessments: If you have concerns about specific areas of your child’s development or suspect a particular disability, you can request that the evaluation team include assessments targeting those areas. Advocating for comprehensive assessments that address your child’s individual needs is essential to obtaining a thorough understanding of their strengths and challenges.
  6. Consent for Evaluation: Provide written consent for the evaluation to proceed in a timely manner once you have formally requested it. The evaluation cannot proceed without parental consent, so it’s important to promptly sign and return the consent form provided by the school.
  7. Timely Follow-Up: Follow up with school personnel to ensure that the evaluation process is initiated promptly and that all necessary assessments are scheduled and completed within the designated timeline. Stay informed about the progress of the evaluation and any additional information or documentation needed from your end.
  8. Advocacy and Support: Seek support from educational advocates, parent support groups, or disability rights organizations if you encounter challenges or barriers during the evaluation process. These resources can provide guidance, advocacy assistance, and emotional support to help you navigate the special education system effectively.

By considering these factors and actively participating in the evaluation process, parents can advocate for their child’s educational needs and ensure that the evaluation is conducted in a thorough, comprehensive, and timely manner. Collaboration with school personnel and effective communication are key to obtaining valuable insights into your child’s learning and development and accessing the support and services they need to succeed in school.