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What Is an Independent Educational Evaluation?

An Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) is an evaluation conducted by a qualified professional who is not employed by the school district responsible for a student's education. An IEE can provide an independent perspective on a student's educational needs and may help clarify questions that remain following a school district evaluation.

When Might an IEE Be Helpful?

An IEE may be helpful when a family, educational professional, attorney, or advocate has questions about a student's learning, development, behavior, or educational needs. A comprehensive independent evaluation can provide additional information about a student's strengths and areas of need and help inform educational planning.

What Can an IEE Evaluate?

Depending on the referral questions and the student's individual needs, an evaluation may examine cognitive abilities, academic achievement, learning and reading skills, attention and executive functioning, behavioral and emotional functioning, adaptive functioning, language, or characteristics associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

What Does the Process Involve?

The evaluation process begins by identifying the questions that need to be answered. Relevant background information is reviewed, appropriate assessment measures are selected, and the evaluation is conducted based on the individual student's needs. Findings are then reviewed and explained in a comprehensive report.

What Happens After an Evaluation?

The results can provide families and educational professionals with a clearer understanding of a student's strengths and areas of need. Findings may help inform educational planning, interventions, accommodations, and decisions about appropriate support.