What this means
An IDEA evaluation is more than one test. IDEA requires the use of a variety of assessment tools and strategies, and no single measure or assessment may be used as the sole criterion for determining eligibility or an appropriate educational program.
Evaluation information can include information provided by parents, classroom assessments, observations, information from teachers and providers, and formal assessment data. Evaluations must be sufficiently comprehensive to identify all of the child's special education and related-service needs, including needs not commonly linked to the disability category.
A reevaluation occurs if the public agency determines that the child's educational or related-service needs warrant one, or if the child's parent or teacher requests one. It generally happens not more than once a year unless the parent and the public agency agree otherwise, and at least once every three years unless the parent and the public agency agree that it is unnecessary. State rules may add requirements.
A reevaluation does not automatically mean repeating every prior test. The team reviews existing evaluation data and determines what additional data, if any, are needed. If the team determines that no additional data are needed, IDEA has notification requirements, and the parent has the right to request assessment.
Parents must receive a copy of the evaluation report and the documentation of eligibility determination at no cost. Federal IDEA does not establish a universal rule requiring that report to be provided before the eligibility meeting; state or local rules may add requirements.
What you may see
- Several assessment tools and strategies rather than a single test
- Observation notes and information from teachers and providers
- A summary section with the evaluator's conclusions
- A review of existing data before any new testing is proposed
Questions to consider
- What questions was this evaluation intended to answer?
- What information was considered?
- Were all areas related to the concerns evaluated?
- What does this information tell us about educational needs?
- Is there anything the team still does not understand?
What you may want to write down
- Terms and scores you want explained
- Dates you requested or received reports
- How the findings compare with what you see at home
Sources and review
Last reviewed: September 10, 2026. This page was reviewed by IEP Pathway against the sources below. State, district and school practices can differ from the federal baseline, so confirm local procedures with your school or state education agency.
Sources
Important note
This site provides educational information, organizational tools and printable resources. It is not legal advice, and it is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Education, any school district, government agency, attorney, law firm or advocacy organization. For advice about your specific situation, consider consulting a qualified professional.
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