What Should Parents Expect During a Special Education Re-Evaluation for Their Teen?

Navigating a re-evaluation for a teen with autism, ADHD, and anxiety can worry parents, especially when supports are working well.

 

Schools conduct triennial re-evaluations to assess current needs, reviewing existing data like private neuropsych reports, teacher observations, and recent behavioral evaluations. Expect interviews about daily functioning, classroom observations, and possibly updated testing in areas like academics or social skills to confirm IEP eligibility.

 

To protect supports, provide updated therapy or medical records showing ongoing needs and emphasize how current accommodations, like direct instruction, drive success. Request a draft IEP before the meeting to review proposed changes and prepare to advocate against reducing services.

 

Connect with advocacy groups for guidance on IDEA rights. If the school pushes for general education without supports, request data justifying the change.

 

A strong IEP ensures continued progress. For challenges, consult a special education advocate.

 

VillageED’s resources offer practical tips for managing re-evaluations: https://www.villageed.org/assessments