Written permission from parents is required before initial individual assessments can be started.

The evaluation process may include several ways of gathering information about your child such as review of records, interviews with you or others familiar with your child, observations of your child in the school setting, and individual testing.

Evaluations completed by non-school personnel will be reviewed at parents' request.

Things to Know About Testing

• Individual tests are given by specially trained professionals who are certified by the Maryland State Department of Education.
• Testing materials and procedures must not be racially or culturally discriminatory.
• Evaluations completed by non-school personnel will be reviewed at parents' request.

If you agree with the results of the assessments

• If you agree with the results of the assessments, the outcomes will be used to guide the planning process.
• If it is decided that the school's evaluation is appropriate, you may obtain an independent evaluation at your expense. The school system, upon request, has an obligation to provide you with a list of appropriate agencies or assessment specialists not affiliated with the local education system. Such independent evaluators must have proper credentials and must follow criteria that meet state standards.

If you disagree with the results of the assessments

• If you disagree with the results of an assessment, you should discuss your concerns with school personnel. They share your interest in obtaining accurate information in order to provide an appropriate educational program for your child.
• If you feel the school's evaluation is inaccurate, you have the right to request an independent evaluation at the school's expense. However, the school system may initiate a due process hearing to have an impartial hearing officer decide if the school evaluation is appropriate.

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