Who can refer or request an evaluation?

Who can refer or request an evaluation?

• A. Students only
• B. Parents only
• C. Parents and educators
• D. The school nurse

Answer: (C)

The key idea here is who can start the process of evaluating a child for special education services. Under typical practice and the IDEA framework, either a parent or school personnel who work with the child—educators such as teachers, specialists, or administrators—can initiate an initial referral for evaluation. This mirrors the collaborative process expected in many schools, where concerns are raised from home and from the classroom, prompting a formal review to determine eligibility for services. Understanding that parents are essential partners is important, because parental consent is required to proceed with the evaluations, and parent involvement guides the assessment team. While a school nurse may notice health-related factors and be involved in discussions, the option that explicitly covers both parents and educators captures the standard referral channels most often emphasized in practice and exams.

The key idea here is who can start the process of evaluating a child for special education services. Under typical practice and the IDEA framework, either a parent or school personnel who work with the child—educators such as teachers, specialists, or administrators—can initiate an initial referral for evaluation. This mirrors the collaborative process expected in many schools, where concerns are raised from home and from the classroom, prompting a formal review to determine eligibility for services.

Understanding that parents are essential partners is important, because parental consent is required to proceed with the evaluations, and parent involvement guides the assessment team. While a school nurse may notice health-related factors and be involved in discussions, the option that explicitly covers both parents and educators captures the standard referral channels most often emphasized in practice and exams.