An Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) is a comprehensive assessment completed outside of the school district to help families better understand their child’s communication, learning, or educational strengths and needs. IEEs provide individualized recommendations to help guide educational planning, eligibility decisions, intervention and accommodation recommendations, and support meaningful participation at home, school, and in the community.

Speech-language IEEs assess a variety of communication skills, including articulation/speech sounds, language, voice, fluency, and social communication. Specialized communication skills can also be assessed, including AAC, literacy, and executive functioning. These skills are assessed through formal and informal assessments, observation, and parent and teacher input to obtain a holistic few of each student’s skillset.

Parents and families have the right to request an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) if they disagree with a school district’s evaluation. Under IDEA, families may request that the district fund the evaluation or they can pursue an independent evaluation privately. IEEs provide an outside, independent perspective to help better understand a student’s educational needs and provide individualized recommendations.

You may consider requesting an IEE if you:

• Disagree with your child's school evaluation

• Were told your child has “tested out” of services, but you know they still need support

• Feel your child's strengths or challenges were overlooked or not fully understood

• Have concerns that remain unanswered

• Would like an independent, objective opinion

• Want additional recommendations to support your child's educational success

An IEE can help provide greater clarity and a deeper understanding of your child's communication and learning profile.

Each evaluation is individualized based on your child's needs and referral concerns. A comprehensive speech-language IEE may include:

• Review of educational and medical records

• Parent interview

• Teacher input

• Comprehensive standardized and informal assessments

• Clinical observations

• Analysis and interpretation of findings

• A detailed written report with individualized recommendations

• A feedback conference to discuss results and answer questions

When appropriate, collaboration with your child's educational team may also be included.