What is an evaluation in the context of special education?

An evaluation in the context of special education refers specifically to the systematic process used to determine whether a child has a disability that adversely affects their educational performance and consequently requires special education services. This evaluation typically involves a variety of assessments, observations, and input from parents and educators to gather comprehensive information about the child’s abilities, challenges, and needs.

This process is critical in ensuring that the right supports and interventions are provided to help the child succeed in an educational environment. It is aligned with the legal requirements under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), which mandates evaluations to identify children who may benefit from special education services.

In contrast, evaluating for giftedness, conducting standardized tests for all students, or focusing solely on classroom behaviors does not capture the breadth of assessments and considerations involved in determining eligibility for special education services. These other options either present a narrower focus or do not pertain specifically to the identification of disabilities as required in special education evaluations.