News

The start of a new school year is right around the corner, which makes this a great time for families to understand the timelines in the special education process. When you know what to expect, it is easier to make sure your child gets the support they need without unnecessary delays. The Arc of Greater Pittsburgh, part of the Achieva family of organizations, has been helping families navigate these steps for more than 70 years. They are here to ensure you have the knowledge, tools, and support to be a strong advocate for your child.

 

Starting with an Initial Evaluation

If you believe your child may need special education services, you can request an evaluation from your school.

• If you ask verbally, the school has 10 calendar days to send you a Permission to Evaluate (PTE) form or a Notice of Recommended Educational Placement (NOREP) if they decide not to evaluate.
• If you make the request in writing, the school should respond within a reasonable time, usually 10 calendar days.
• Once the school receives your signed permission, they have 60 calendar days to complete the evaluation and give you the evaluation report.
• If your child is found eligible for an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), you will receive the evaluation report at least 10 school days before the IEP meeting. You may choose to waive this waiting period.

 

Understanding Re-Evaluations

Re-evaluations follow the same timelines as the initial evaluation.

• They happen every three years, or every two years if your child has an intellectual disability.
• A re-evaluation is required before a student can be discharged from special education.
• Families receive the report at least 10 school days before the IEP meeting unless they choose to waive the time.

 

Your Right to an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE)

If you disagree with the results of a school evaluation, you have the right to request an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) from a qualified professional who is not employed by the school district. This independent evaluation can provide a fresh perspective on your child’s needs and abilities.

When you request an IEE, the school must either agree to provide it at no cost to you without delay or request a due process hearing. To better understand due process and your rights before requesting an IEE, visit The Office of Dispute Resolution at https://odr-pa.org/due-process/.

To help families feel more confident in navigating disagreements, join our upcoming webinar Conflict Resolution for Families of Students with Disabilities, presented by Sue Wasserkrug, Esq. This training will cover conflict resolution strategies, communication skills, and practical tools to address differences constructively throughout your child’s education.

 

When the School Proposes Changes

If the school proposes changes to your child’s identification, evaluation, or placement, they must notify you using the NOREP form.

 

IEP Meetings and Your Role

Parents must receive advance notice of IEP meetings so they can plan to attend.

• IEP meetings must occur at least once every year.
• A meeting must happen within 30 calendar days of completing an evaluation or re-evaluation.
• Once you consent to services, the school must begin the IEP as soon as possible and no later than 10 school days later.
• You do not have to wait for the annual IEP meeting or for the school to reach out to you.  You can request and IEP team meeting at anytime. 

 

---

As you prepare for the new school year, remember that you are not alone in this process. The Arc of Greater Pittsburgh offers no-cost guidance, training, and advocacy to help families navigate evaluations, IEP meetings, and educational planning. Their team works with parents (and young adults) to build their advocacy skills, understand their rights, explore options, and ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed in school and in life.

If you need support at any stage—whether you are requesting your first evaluation, preparing for a meeting, or addressing changes in your child’s services—Residents of Allegheny, Beaver, and Westmoreland Counties can reach out to The Arc of Greater Pittsburgh at www.achieva.info/advocacy or call 412-995-5000 ext. 486.