An initial evaluation for special education is the formal process schools use to determine if a child is eligible for special education services. This isn’t a quick screening—it’s meant to be a full comprehensive educational evaluation that examines ALL areas related to your child’s suspected disability.

The evaluation answers two important questions:

• Does the child have a disability?
• Does the child need special education and related services as a result?

You can request an evaluation anytime you notice concerns with your child’s learning, behavior, attention, communication, social skills, or emotional development. You don’t need a diagnosis, and you don’t need to wait for the school to suggest it. (NOR SHOULD YOU!)

Common reasons families request evaluations include concerns about:

• Slow or failing to progress in academic areas
• Attention or focus issues
• Emotional regulation or behavior
• Speech and language development
• Social or peer interaction skills
• Sensory needs
• Executive functioning (planning, organization, impulse control)

When making your request, it’s essential to use precise language. You should clearly state that you are requesting a:

Full comprehensive educational evaluation for special education for the suspicion of [insert disability(s)].

Examples:

• “…for the suspicion of a learning disability.”
• “…for the suspicion of ADHD.”
• “…for the suspicion of autism.”
• “…for the suspicion of an emotional disability.”

This ensures the school understands that:

• You are making a formal request
• You expect a FULL comprehensive evaluation
• The evaluation must cover all suspected areas

• Put it in writing. An email or letter is fine, but keep a copy for your records -- and follow up if you don't hear back in a reasonable amount of time
• Be clear and direct. You don’t need to prove anything—just state your request and a simple reason why.
• Save everything. Dates and documentation are important in special education.

Depending on your child’s needs, this may include:

• Academic testing
• Cognitive assessments
• Speech and language evaluation
• Occupational therapy evaluation
• Social-emotional or behavioral assessments
• Classroom observations
• Input from parents and teachers

The evaluation must be individualized and cover all suspected areas.

Understanding the special education evaluation process can feel overwhelming. If reviewing timelines, requirements, and school responses feels like too much—or if you simply want guidance from the start—you do not have to navigate this alone.

If understanding the entire process feels overwhelming, let me guide you. You can schedule a time to talk with me here:

What This Often Feels:

• “They’re talking about my child like they’re the problem.”
• “Why does this feel like a discipline meeting?”

A Better Approach:

Bring the focus back to needs and supports:

• “What support is in place to address this behavior?”
• “What skills does my child need help developing?”
• “How will this be taught, not just managed?”

Tips to Avoid This Mistake:

• Frame concerns in terms of skills and learning, not blame..
• Ask the team to connect behavior to measurable goals and interventions.
• Keep documentation of behavior and strategies from home or therapy to share with the team.

What This Often Feels:

• “They’re passing, so they must be fine.”
• “Homework takes hours, but grades are okay.”
• “They seem tired, but the teacher says they’re doing fine.”

A Better Approach:

Ask questions to uncover true progress:

• “Is this progress appropriate for my child’s potential?”
• “How does this compare to grade-level expectations?”
• “Can we review data that shows both strengths and gaps?”

Tips to Avoid This Mistake:

• Review past assessments and progress reports.
• Bring observations from home about fatigue, frustration, or skill gaps.
• Ensure the IEP reflects both current abilities and areas needing support.

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An advocate should be your ally, a knowledgeable and experienced professional who understands the needs of kids like yours, the balance of the classroom questions, the rights of children with special needs and the laws that protect them.

I work tirelessly to:

Ensure fair and appropriate education: I help you understand your child's IEP, advocate for the most appropriate placement to help them find success, and ensure they receive the necessary accommodations and modifications to succeed.

Traverse complex systems: From school districts to government agencies, I can guide you through the maze of bureaucracy and help you understand your rights and options.

​Empower parents and guardians: I can help you become a more confident and effective advocate for your child. They will equip you with the knowledge and tools you need to make informed decisions and speak up for your child's needs.

Why You Need an Advocate:

You're not alone: Parenting a child with special needs can be isolating. I provide support, understanding, and a listening ear.

Level the playing field: The education system can be intimidating, especially when you're facing complex issues. I help you communicate effectively with school officials and ensure your child's needs are met, while documenting the issues and agreements.

​Maximize your child's potential: I help you identify and access resources that can unlock your child's full potential.

Think Back:

Remember that time you felt lost in a meeting with school officials, unsure of what questions to ask or how to advocate for your child's needs? I would have been there to guide you and ensure your voice was heard.

Recall the frustration of trying to decipher your child's IEP and understand the legalese? I can help you break down the jargon and make sense of the document.

​Think about the countless hours you've spent researching resources and support services for your child. I can save you time and energy by connecting you with the right people and organizations.

As an advocate for fair education and children with special needs, I understand the challenges you face. I'm here to support you and help you traverse this journey.

Follow us on social media for more information and resources, and don't hesitate to reach out to set up a 20-minute consultation to share your story with me and see how I can help. Together, we can ensure that all children, regardless of their abilities, receive the education they deserve.

Navigating the IEP meeting process shouldn't be daunting. By understanding the purpose of the meeting, preparing relevant documents, communicating effectively with the IEP team, collaborating with them, and seeking further support, parents can confidently approach the meeting to ensure the best outcomes for their child. Remember, you are not alone in this journey. With the appropriate preparation and resources, we can all navigate through the complexities of special education and empower our children to thrive.

• Identify Key Activities – Determine the main transitions and tasks in your child’s day, such as morning routines, schoolwork, playtime, and bedtime.
• Choose a Format – Depending on your child’s needs, you can use picture cards, written lists, digital apps, or interactive boards.
• Make It Accessible – Place the schedule in a visible location and ensure it’s easy to understand.
• Use Consistent Reinforcement – Encourage your child to check and follow the schedule, providing gentle guidance as needed.
• Adapt as Needed – As your child grows and develops new skills, update the schedule to reflect their evolving needs.