Independent Educational Evaluations (IEEs)
If you disagree with an evaluation your child’s school district completed, you can ask for an independent educational evaluation, called an IEE. An IEE is done by a qualified examiner who does not work for the district, and in many cases the district pays for it.
Your rights in plain terms
- You can request an IEE at public expense if you disagree with an evaluation the district obtained.
- The district must respond in writing within 7 calendar days of receiving your request, saying whether it will provide the IEE or start a hearing.
- Without unnecessary delay, the district must either provide the IEE at public expense or initiate a hearing to show its own evaluation is appropriate.
- The district must give you information about examiner credential criteria, suggested sources and locations, reasonable expected costs, and how reimbursement works. You are not limited to the district’s suggested sources.
- If a hearing officer finds the district’s evaluation appropriate, you still have the right to an IEE, but not at public expense.
These rights come from Michigan’s special education rules, R 340.1723c. This page is general information, not legal advice. Michigan Alliance for Families offers free help to parents working through special education questions.
How we conduct IEEs
Kalamazoo ADHD Consultants is a private practice and is not employed by any school district. Dr. Chris Barnes, PsyD, LP, reviews the district’s evaluation and your child’s records, then completes testing in the areas in question. Depending on the concern, that may include cognitive and academic skills, attention, social-emotional functioning, or autism. You and the district receive a written report.
How to start
- Put your request for an IEE in writing to your district’s special education director.
- Ask the district for its examiner criteria and suggested sources.
- Contact our office with the district’s response. We’ll confirm we meet the criteria and coordinate scheduling and billing with the district.
Paying for an IEE yourself
Parents can also arrange an independent evaluation at their own expense and share the results with their child’s school team. See our Insurance and Billing page or contact our office for current fees.
For districts and advocates
To refer a family or check our credentials against your IEE criteria, contact our office through the form on this page.
