Understanding the Evaluation Process
Before diving into timelines, it's essential to understand what an evaluation entails. An evaluation is a comprehensive assessment to determine if your child qualifies for special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). It involves various tests and observations conducted by a team of professionals.
Timeline for Evaluation in Colorado
In Colorado, once you provide written consent for an evaluation, the school has 60 calendar days to complete it. This timeline is in place to ensure that your child receives timely support if needed. It's important to note that these are calendar days, not school days, which means weekends and holidays are included.
Exceptions to the Timeline
There are certain exceptions to the 60-day timeline. For instance, if your child is absent for a significant number of days during the evaluation period, the timeline may be extended. Additionally, if you and the school agree in writing to extend the timeline for specific reasons, this is also permissible.
What Happens After the Evaluation?
Once the evaluation is complete, the school will schedule a meeting to discuss the results with you. During this meeting, the team will determine if your child is eligible for special education services and, if so, what those services will include. This meeting is a critical step in developing an Individualized Education Program (IEP) if your child qualifies.
How to Track the Evaluation Progress
Keeping track of the evaluation timeline is crucial. You can do this by marking the date you provided consent on a calendar and noting the 60-day deadline. Regularly communicate with the school's special education coordinator to stay informed about the progress.
What to Do If the Timeline Is Not Met
If the school does not complete the evaluation within the 60-day timeframe, you have the right to inquire about the delay. It's advisable to start by contacting the school's special education coordinator to understand the reasons for the delay and to discuss next steps. If necessary, you can escalate the issue by contacting the district's special education office.
Practical tips
- Mark the date you give consent for evaluation on your calendar.
- Communicate regularly with the school's special education coordinator.
- Request written updates on the evaluation progress.
- Prepare questions for the post-evaluation meeting.
- Understand your rights under IDEA and Colorado state law.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Assuming the timeline is based on school days, not calendar days.
- Not keeping a record of when consent was given.
- Failing to follow up with the school about evaluation progress.
- Not preparing for the post-evaluation meeting.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the first step in the evaluation process?
- The first step is providing written consent for the evaluation to begin.
- Can the evaluation timeline be extended?
- Yes, the timeline can be extended if both you and the school agree in writing.
- What if my child is absent during the evaluation period?
- Significant absences can extend the evaluation timeline.
- Who conducts the evaluation?
- A team of professionals, including teachers and specialists, conducts the evaluation.
- What happens if my child is found eligible for services?
- An IEP meeting will be scheduled to develop a plan tailored to your child's needs.