Can I get an independent evaluation outside of the school system?
You may also get independent evaluations and reports from professionals outside of the school system and send them to your child’s school. The results of these outside evaluations will be considered in determining if your child has a disability and needs special education.
The school district will provide you with information about where an independent evaluation can be obtained. If the school district refuses, they must initiate a special education due process hearing.
If you wish for the school district to pay for an independent educational evaluation, you must make that request in writing prior to having the evaluation conducted. Refer to the sample letter below.
Sample Letter:
Requesting Reimbursement for an Independent Evaluation
Your address
Phone Numbers:
Home: ( )
Cell: ( )
Work: ( )
Re: Request for reimbursement for an Independent Evaluation
Date:
Principal’s name
School name
School address
Dear principal’s name:
I am the parent and/or guardian (choose the correct term) of your child’s full name whose date of birth is month/day/year. Your child’s first name is in the number grade in room number.
I am requesting that the school district agree to pay for an independent evaluation of my child. I believe that this evaluation is necessary because the district’s evaluation did not list reasons why you believe the district’s evaluation was not sufficient or appropriate to be used to develop an appropriate program for your child.I understand that if the school district turns down my request, it must arrange for a special education hearing. Please contact me to let me know whether the independent evaluation will be provided or when the hearing will be scheduled.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
Your name
Source: Pennsylvania Parent Guide to Special Education for School Age Children - July 2008 Chapter 14 Regulations. Pennsylvania Department of Education, Bureau of Special Education; Pennsylvania Training and Technical Assistance Network