Ensuring Fair and Accurate Educational Assessments

Accurate evaluations and assessments are essential in determining whether a student qualifies for special education services, 504 accommodations, or additional academic support. Schools are required by law to conduct timely and appropriate evaluations under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. However, many families face delays, denials, or inadequate assessments that prevent their child from receiving the services they need.

At Ratliff Jackson LLP, our Education Law Attorneys represent families in evaluations and assessments disputes to ensure schools comply with their legal obligations. If your child has been wrongfully denied an evaluation, received an inaccurate assessment, or had a delayed school evaluation, we can take legal action to protect their rights and secure the support they need.

Why You Need Attorneys for Evaluations and Assessments Disputes

Many schools fail to conduct comprehensive assessments or try to deny eligibility for special education services to limit costs. Without legal representation, families may struggle to challenge the school’s findings and obtain independent evaluations.

Here is why hiring Education Law Attorneys is critical for evaluations and assessments disputes:

• Schools Often Delay or Deny Evaluations – Many districts ignore parental requests or conduct superficial assessments to avoid providing services.
• Inaccurate Assessments Can Lead to Improper Placement – A faulty evaluation can result in inappropriate IEP services, incorrect disability classifications, or denial of necessary accommodations.
• Independent Evaluations May Be Necessary – If parents disagree with the school’s assessment, they have the right to request an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) at the district’s expense.
• Legal Action May Be Needed to Ensure Compliance – If the school refuses to conduct evaluations, delays testing, or ignores the results, legal intervention may be necessary.

Our Attorneys ensure that students receive accurate, timely, and appropriate educational evaluations so they can access the services they are entitled to under the law.

Common Evaluations and Assessments Disputes We Handle

Our Education Law Attorneys represent families in cases involving:

• Denial of Special Education Evaluations – Challenging schools that refuse to test students for learning disabilities, ADHD, autism, or other conditions.
• Delayed Evaluations and Re-Evaluations – Ensuring schools comply with legal timelines for initial evaluations and required re-assessments.
• Flawed or Incomplete School Assessments – Addressing cases where schools conduct rushed or inadequate testing to deny eligibility.
• Denial of Independent Educational Evaluations (IEE) – Forcing districts to cover the cost of an IEE when parents dispute school assessments.
• Disputes Over Standardized Testing and Academic Assessments – Challenging test results that misrepresent a student’s abilities or lead to incorrect placements.

If your child has been wrongfully denied an evaluation or received an inaccurate assessment, our Attorneys can take legal action to enforce their rights.

Potential Remedies – How We Ensure Fair Educational Evaluations

When schools fail to conduct proper evaluations, our Attorneys take legal steps to ensure compliance and secure accurate assessments for students. Possible legal remedies include:

• Forcing the School to Conduct Proper Evaluations – Ensuring the district performs full and appropriate assessments.
• Obtaining an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) at Public Expense – Holding the district accountable for covering the cost of an independent assessment.
• Challenging Improper IEP or 504 Plan Decisions – Using legal action to correct inaccurate evaluations that impact educational placement or services.
• Securing Compensatory Education for Delayed Evaluations – Obtaining additional educational services if the district’s delays harmed the student’s progress.

Who We Help – Advocating for Families in Evaluations and Assessments Disputes

Our Education Law Attorneys represent:

• Parents seeking initial evaluations or re-evaluations for their children.
• Families challenging inaccurate or incomplete school assessments.
• Students denied special education services due to faulty evaluations.
• Parents requesting Independent Educational Evaluations (IEEs) at public expense.
• Families disputing standardized testing results or academic assessments.

We are committed to ensuring that students receive fair, accurate, and timely evaluations so they can access the services they need to succeed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I request an evaluation for my child?

Parents can submit a written request to the school district, asking for an evaluation to determine eligibility for special education services or a 504 Plan. The district must respond within a legally required timeline.

What if the school denies my request for an evaluation?

If the district refuses to evaluate your child, you have the right to challenge the decision through a due process hearing or request an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE).

What is an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE)?

An IEE is a private assessment conducted by an independent expert when parents disagree with the school’s evaluation. Schools must cover the cost of an IEE if the district’s assessment is found to be inadequate or flawed.

Can I challenge the results of my child’s school assessment?

Yes. If you believe the school’s evaluation is inaccurate, you can:

• Request an IEE at public expense.
• Challenge the assessment through an IEP meeting, mediation, or a due process hearing.
• Work with an Education Law Attorney to ensure the correct services are provided.

How long does the school have to complete an evaluation?

Timelines vary by state, but generally, schools must complete an initial evaluation within 60 days after receiving parental consent. If the district delays beyond legal limits, parents can take legal action.

Contact Our Education Law Attorneys

If your child has been denied an evaluation, received an inaccurate assessment, or faced delays in testing, it is essential to act quickly to protect their educational rights. Schools must follow evaluation laws, and we are here to ensure they do.

At Ratliff Jackson LLP, our Education Law Attorneys fight to ensure students receive timely, accurate, and appropriate educational evaluations. If your child has been wrongfully denied an assessment or placed in an inappropriate program, we are ready to help.

Contact Our Attorneys today to discuss your case and explore your legal options.