Is there a specific timeline the school district must follow?

Yes. Once you submit a written request disagreeing with their assessment, the school district must respond 'without unnecessary delay.' In California, this is generally interpreted as 10 to 15 school days. They must either agree to fund the IEE or file for a due process hearing to defend their own assessment.

Should I sign an assessment plan before requesting an IEE?

You must wait until the school district has actually completed their assessment and you have received the final reports. You cannot request an IEE before the district has had the first opportunity to evaluate your child. Once their assessment is complete and you disagree with the results, that is the time to request the IEE.

Special Education FAQ

How do I request an IEE from my school district?

Quick Answer: To request an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) at public expense, you must write a formal letter or email to your school district's special education director stating that you disagree with their recent assessment and are requesting an IEE. You do not need to provide a detailed explanation of your disagreement.

Detailed Explanation

This section provides a thorough, deep dive into the legal and clinical realities behind the question. For example, explaining IDEA regulations, California Education Code, or the specific timeline requirements.

Parents should remember these key points:

Point A: Ensure you submit requests in writing.
Point B: School districts have 15 days to provide an assessment plan.

Key Takeaways

Use a template or seek help to write a clear, formal disagreement letter.
Keep records of all correspondence and dates of your written requests.

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