How to Get Your Child Evaluated
For New York City Public School Families
Every child has the right to be evaluated if there is reason to suspect they have a disability that may affect their education. You do not need a diagnosis before requesting an evaluation, and you do not need to wait until your child is failing. Parents have the right to make a written referral requesting an evaluation. Your child’s school district will most likely begin the process with a no-cost psychoeducational evaluation. A psychoeducational evaluation is shorter than a neuropsychological evaluation and therefore takes less time to conduct. However, they do offer a fairly comprehensive view of a learner’s areas of strength and challenge and are used to determine whether the student qualifies for an IEP or 504 plan for services and support (both of which are explained under “Understanding the Results and Terminology.”)
Gather Your Concerns
Before contacting the school, spend a little time documenting what you've noticed.
Helpful things to collect:
Recent report cards
Standardized test scores (if available)
Teacher emails or comments
Examples of schoolwork
Notes about challenges you've observed at home (reading, writing, math, attention, organization, etc.)
Tip: Write down specific examples instead of general concerns. For example, "My child reads a page several times but still cannot explain what they read."
Speak With Your Child's Teacher
Many families begin by talking with their child's classroom teacher.
You can ask questions like:
What strengths have you noticed?
What concerns do you have?
Have you noticed similar challenges in the classroom?
What supports have already been tried?
While a teacher conversation can be helpful, you do not need a teacher's permission to request an evaluation.
Sample Evaluation Request Letter:
Give Consent for the Evaluation
After receiving your referral, the school will explain the evaluation process and ask for your written consent before testing begins. No evaluation can begin until consent is provided.
Submit a Written Request
This is the most important step.
In New York City, a parent can request a special education evaluation in writing. Your request should include:
Your child's name and date of birth
The school they attend
A description of your concerns
A statement requesting a special education evaluation
Your contact information
Your preferred language, if it is not English
Attend the Eligibility Meeting
Depending on your child's needs, the school may complete assessments related to:
Academic skills
Cognitive functioning
Speech and language
Behavior
Social-emotional development
Occupational or physical therapy (if appropriate)
The school evaluates in all areas related to the suspected disability. Once testing is complete, you'll meet with the school's Committee on Special Education (CSE) to review the results.
Together, you'll discuss:
Whether your child qualifies for special education
The evaluation findings
Recommended supports
Next steps
If your child is eligible, the team will develop an Individualized Education Program (IEP)
Services Begin
If your child qualifies, the school will work with you to begin the services and accommodations outlined in the IEP.
Remember:
You're an important member of the team.
Ask questions if anything is unclear.
You can request an IEP meeting if your child's needs change.
You have the right to:
Request an evaluation in writing.
Participate in meetings about your child's education.
Receive explanations of the evaluation results.
Ask questions and share your concerns.
Disagree with the school's evaluation and, in some situations, request an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE).
A Note About Timelines
While New York City Public Schools are required to follow timelines established by state and federal law, the evaluation process can sometimes take longer than families expect. Factors such as school staffing, scheduling, and the number of referrals being processed may affect how quickly evaluations are completed.
If you have submitted a written request and have not received a response within a reasonable amount of time, don't assume your request has been forgotten. Follow up with your child's school, keep copies of all emails and letters, and document the dates of your communications.
If you have questions about the process or are unsure what to do next, don't hesitate to ask for help. Understanding your rights and staying organized can make the process much smoother.