Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE)

Parents and school districts may disagree at times regarding the results of testing or appropriateness of the child’s progress in school.  If parents disagree with the findings of a school-based evaluation, they can request an independent educational evaluation (IEE) by a professional not affiliated with the school, at public expense.  Please see the following sample letter as an example of a written request.  While the school may provide a list of several professionals, parents may also request a professional or expert not included on the list, particularly if the parent is requesting an evaluation by a professional with specific expertise.  The school may also ask for the reason that the school’s evaluation was not appropriate, but cannot mandate a response.  

Oftentimes, a neuropsychological evaluation is requested due to the comprehensive nature of the evaluation, the level of expertise involved, and the broad areas covered.  Parents may also want to initiate a private independent evaluation at their own expense.  The fee for a private-pay evaluation ($2,400) is the same as the fee for one at public expense in most situations and, regardless of the source of payment, the child’s needs are kept paramount.  If a school observation is conducted, an additional $300 fee is assessed. 

In most cases, all Independent Educational Evaluations are conducted at the office in Wayne, PA.   However, occasionally Dr. Kelly will travel to the school or facility to conduct the evaluation when transporting the child provides a hardship to the parents and/or child.  In such situations, all arrangements are confirmed by school officials and parents.  

Understanding special educational rights and policy can be helpful in navigating this process.  For more information, please refer to the policy letter by the U.S Department of Education at  http://www.wrightslaw.com/info/test.eval.choice.osep.htm