Your child has passing grades but melts down every night over homework and is anxious about school. The school says she can't qualify because her grades are fine. What's true?
Explanation: Eligibility looks at the whole child, not just grades. Struggles with behavior, emotions, or effort can show a real need.
Getting an Evaluation
The evaluation is finished, but the school won't share the report until the meeting. What is a reasonable request?
Explanation: Reading the report early helps you take part fully. Many schools will share it ahead if you ask, and some states require it.
Getting an Evaluation
The school says your child must finish 12 weeks of reading interventions before it can evaluate. Is that right?
Explanation: Interventions and an evaluation can happen at the same time. Using interventions to put off testing is a red flag.
Getting an Evaluation
How long does the school usually have to complete an initial evaluation after you sign consent?
Explanation: Federal law uses 60 days unless the state sets a different timeline. Ask your school what deadline applies to you.
Getting an Evaluation
You signed consent for an evaluation. What did you agree to?
Explanation: Consent to evaluate covers the evaluation. You decide separately whether to consent to special education services.
Getting an Evaluation
You ask the teacher about an evaluation. She says, 'Let's wait and see how the year goes.' What is the best next step?
Explanation: A written request gets the process started and creates a record. The school must then seek consent or give you a written refusal.
Getting an Evaluation
The school refuses your evaluation request in a phone call. What should you ask for?
Explanation: A school that says no must explain its reasons in writing. That notice also gives you something to respond to or challenge.
Getting an Evaluation
Your 4th grader attends a private school, and you suspect ADHD. Who is responsible for evaluating him?
Explanation: Child Find covers children in private schools. The district where the private school sits handles the evaluation.
Getting an Evaluation
Your child struggles with reading and handwriting. The school's testing plan only lists reading. What should you do?
Explanation: The evaluation should look at every area of suspected disability. Name your concerns in writing so they are on record.