Kidmunicate Supports Independent Educational Evaluations (IEEs) in Pennsylvania
If you feel your child’s school evaluation hasn’t fully captured their learning profile or identified the root of their challenges, you have the right to seek a second opinion. Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), families are entitled to an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE).
What is an IEE?
An IEE is a comprehensive assessment conducted by a qualified professional who is not employed by your school district. It provides an objective, “second look” at your child’s development, learning style, and educational needs.
When Should You Request an IEE?
Parents typically seek an independent evaluation when:
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Disagreement on Eligibility: The school says the child doesn’t qualify for services, but they are still struggling.
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Incomplete Picture: The school’s testing felt limited or missed key areas of concern.
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Changing Needs: A child’s progress has plateaued, or their challenges have evolved.
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Seeking Clarity: You want a more specialized deep dive into how your child learns.
What Does an IEE Cover?
An IEE provides a holistic view of your child, often focusing on:
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Learning Disabilities: Dyslexia, dysgraphia, or dyscalculia.
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Cognitive Processing: Executive functioning, memory, and attention.
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Communication: Speech and language development.
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Social-Emotional Health: Autism spectrum concerns or emotional regulation.
The findings from an IEE are a powerful tool in determining if your child qualifies for an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or a Section 504 Plan.
Will the School Pay for an IEE?
Yes. In Pennsylvania, if you disagree with the district’s evaluation, you can request an IEE at public expense. Once requested, the district must legally choose one of two paths:
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Approve and fund the independent evaluation.
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File for a due process hearing to prove that their original evaluation was already “appropriate.”
The 4-Step Process to Requesting an IEE
Step 1: Write to the District Send a formal letter or email to the Special Education Director. You only need to state that you disagree with their evaluation and are requesting an IEE at public expense.
Sample Language: “I am writing to formally disagree with the district’s recent evaluation of [Child’s Name] and am requesting an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) at public expense.”
Step 2: The School’s Response The district must respond within a reasonable timeframe. If they approve, they may provide a list of local evaluators (though you are generally free to choose any evaluator who meets their criteria).
Step 3: The Evaluation The independent evaluator will conduct a thorough review, including parent interviews, record reviews, standardized testing, and classroom observations.
Step 4: The Results Meeting Once the report is ready, the school district must consider the findings when making decisions about your child’s services and placement.
How Kidmunicate Can Help
An IEE is more than just a second opinion—it’s a roadmap for your child’s success. It identifies missed learning differences and provides the specific recommendations needed to secure the right support.
Have questions about the IEE process? We’re here to help you navigate the system and advocate for the services your child deserves.
Contact Us Today:
Jessica Robinson, Director of Education and Special Services
Email: Jrobinson@kidmunicate.com