Hi, I'm a Texas parent of a 2e child. When I watched the school system fail her, I realized how broken the process is. I built this resource to help parents like you get the support your child deserves. You are not alone.
⚡ Quick Answer
How long does Texas have to complete an evaluation?
Once a written evaluation request is received, the district must complete the Full Individual Evaluation (FIE) and hold an ARD meeting within 45 school days. This timeline is strictly enforced by the Texas Education Agency (TEA). Verbal requests do not start the clock — always submit in writing and keep a copy.
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If you believe your child may have a disability that is impacting their academic performance in Del Valle ISD, you have the right to request a special education evaluation. This evaluation, also known as a Full and Individual Evaluation (FIE), is a critical step in determining whether your child is eligible for special education services. The request must be made in writing.
Your written request should be clear and concise. It should include the following information:
Address your written request to the school principal or the Special Education Director for Del Valle ISD. You can hand-deliver the request, mail it via certified mail with return receipt requested, or email it. Keeping a copy of your request and proof of delivery is crucial.
Once Del Valle ISD receives your written request for an FIE, they have a specific timeline to follow according to Texas Education Code Chapter 29 and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Within 15 school days, the school district must provide you with prior written notice of its decision to either proceed with the evaluation or refuse to evaluate. If the district decides to evaluate, they must also provide you with an opportunity to provide input and consent for the evaluation.
If the district chooses to evaluate, the FIE must be completed and an Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) committee meeting must be held within 45 school days of the date the school district received your written consent for the evaluation. This 45-day timeline excludes school holidays and breaks. At the ARD meeting, the evaluation results will be reviewed, and a determination will be made regarding your child's eligibility for special education services.
The Full and Individual Evaluation (FIE) is a comprehensive assessment designed to determine if your child has a disability and, if so, what their educational needs are. According to Texas law, the FIE must be conducted by a team of qualified professionals and must address all areas related to the suspected disability. This may include:
The specific areas assessed will depend on your child's individual needs and the concerns raised in your written request. The evaluation team must use a variety of assessment tools and techniques, including observations, interviews, and standardized tests.
Del Valle ISD has a legal obligation under IDEA to actively seek out and identify children with disabilities within their jurisdiction, regardless of whether they are enrolled in public school. This is known as "Child Find." If you suspect your child has a disability, you can contact the district to inquire about Child Find services. Even if your child is not currently enrolled in Del Valle ISD, but resides within the district's boundaries, they are subject to Child Find provisions.
If Del Valle ISD refuses to conduct an FIE, they must provide you with prior written notice explaining the reasons for their refusal. This notice must include a description of other options that were considered and the reasons why those options were rejected. You have the right to disagree with the district's decision and pursue dispute resolution options, such as mediation or a due process hearing. The Texas Education Agency (TEA) provides information on dispute resolution processes.
Following the completion of the FIE and the ARD committee meeting, if your child is determined to be eligible for special education services, the ARD committee will develop an Individualized Education Program (IEP). The IEP is a legally binding document that outlines your child's educational goals, the services they will receive, and the accommodations and modifications they will need to succeed. You are a critical member of the ARD committee and have the right to participate in all decisions regarding your child's education. Review the IEP carefully and ask questions to ensure that it meets your child's needs. You can also request another ARD meeting if you disagree with the IEP. Remember to document all communication with the school district.
Answers every parent in Texas needs to know.
Submit a written request directly to the school's principal or special education director. The written request starts the mandatory 45 school-day clock. Keep a dated copy for your records.
A Full Individual Evaluation (FIE) is a comprehensive assessment the school must complete to determine if your child has a disability and needs special education services. It must cover all areas of suspected disability and be completed within 45 school days of your written consent.
Yes, but only if the district provides written notice (Prior Written Notice) explaining why they are refusing and what data they relied on. You have the right to challenge that refusal through mediation or a due process hearing.
📍 Other Districts in Region 13 (TEA ESC)
Parents across the region share the same TEA oversight and ESC support. These districts follow the same timelines:
Austin ISDRound Rock ISDLeander ISDGeorgetown ISDHays CISDEvery toolkit in one bundle — ARD Prep, Behavior Defense, Dyslexia, ADHD, Autism Supplement, and the Accommodations Encyclopedia.
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