When the School’s Evaluation Isn’t Enough: How Families of Color Can Request an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE)
Why We’re Talking About IEEs
If your child was tested by the school — and the evaluation didn’t tell the full story — you’re not alone.
Many parents, especially parents of color, are told:
“Your child doesn’t qualify for services.”
“Their scores are average — nothing to worry about.”
“They’re just behind because of behavior or lack of focus.”
But what happens when you know your child is struggling, and the school’s testing doesn’t reflect what you see at home?
That’s where an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) comes in.
What Is an IEE?
An IEE is a private, outside evaluation done by a professional not employed by the school district. It can assess your child’s needs in areas like:
Learning (dyslexia, ADHD, processing issues)
Behavior and emotional needs
Speech, language, or motor skills
If you disagree with the school’s evaluation, you can request that the district pay for an IEE — and in most cases, they must either approve it or take you to a hearing to explain why they won’t.
Why Families of Color Often Need an IEE
Far too often, we see schools:
Downplay concerns (“They’ll catch up”)
Blame behavior instead of testing for learning disabilities
Use biased tools or interpretations that don’t reflect a child’s full abilities
For example:
“Jayden,” a 10-year-old Black student, was failing reading but the school said his scores were “average.” His mom requested an IEE. The independent evaluator found he had dyslexia and needed specialized reading instruction.
“Sofia,” a Latina student, was repeatedly suspended for “defiance.” An IEE showed her anxiety and ADHD were being ignored — and the district had to provide counseling and supports.
How to Request an IEE (Sample Language)
Here’s what you can send to the school (copy, paste, and make it your own):
Subject: Request for Independent Educational Evaluation
Dear [Administrator’s Name],
I am writing to formally request an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) at public expense for my child, [Child’s Name]. I disagree with the school’s evaluation completed on [Date] because I believe it does not accurately reflect my child’s needs.
Please provide me with the district’s IEE procedures and confirm next steps within five (5) school days.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
What Happens Next?
The school must either:
Approve and pay for the IEE, or
File for a due process hearing to prove their evaluation is appropriate (most don’t).
If they stall, delay, or try to intimidate you, we can help make sure your request moves forward.
You Don’t Have to Fight This Alone
At The IEP Files™, we’ve helped parents:
Get schools to pay for private neuropsychological testing
Use IEEs to unlock services like reading intervention, counseling, and 1:1 support
Advocate for changes to IEPs based on independent results
We can help you draft your IEE request, guide you through the process, and even connect you with trusted evaluators.
Book a Session
Need help requesting an IEE or making sure the district pays for it?
Disclaimer
We are not attorneys and do not provide legal representation. This blog is for educational purposes only to help families understand their rights. For legal advice or representation, we can connect you with experienced attorneys and advocacy groups.
