If your child might need special education services, your school district is required by law to evaluate them.
There are many types of evaluations your child might need. These include tests for speech and language, hearing, behavior, and thinking and learning skills. Each type looks at a different area of your child's development. Together, they help figure out what support your child needs most. This is called "child find."
The school creates an Individualized Education Program (IEP) that lists your child's special education services. The school must review the IEP every three years This three-year check is called a "triennial evaluation." You don't have to wait for it. You can ask for new evaluations at any time if your child isn't making progress or needs more support.
If you disagree with your school's evaluations, you can ask for an independent evaluation. This means a test done by someone outside the school. The Department of Education (DOE) might have to pay for it.
Learn more about the different types of evaluations and when to ask for them.
Last Reviewed: May 12, 2026