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⚡ 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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This guide provides parents and guardians with information about requesting a special education evaluation for their child within the Katy Independent School District (Katy ISD) in Texas. Understanding the process, legal rights, and timelines is crucial to advocating for your child's educational needs. This guide specifically addresses the laws and procedures relevant to special education in Texas.
The first step in initiating the special education evaluation process is to submit a written request to Katy ISD. This written request serves as official notification that you believe your child may have a disability that is affecting their educational performance and requires special education services.
Who to Address the Request To: While you can address the request to multiple individuals to ensure it is received promptly, it's best to address it primarily to the school principal and the school's special education director or 504 coordinator. You can also copy your child's teacher on the request.
Content of the Written Request: The written request should be clear, concise, and include the following information:
Example Request:
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Principal's Name], Principal
[School Name]
[School Address]
Subject: Request for Full and Individual Initial Evaluation for [Child's Full Name]
Dear Principal [Principal's Last Name],
I am writing to request a Full and Individual Initial Evaluation (FIIE) for my child, [Child's Full Name], who is currently in [Grade Level] at [School Name]. [Child's Full Name]'s date of birth is [Date of Birth].
I am concerned about [Child's Full Name]'s progress in [Specific Subject(s) or Area(s) of Concern, e.g., reading comprehension, math calculations, following directions, social interaction]. For example, [Provide Specific Examples, e.g., "[Child's Name] struggles to decode multi-syllable words, resulting in difficulty comprehending reading passages. On the recent reading test, [he/she] scored a 60%. In math, [he/she] frequently reverses numbers and struggles with word problems." or "[Child's Name] has difficulty staying on task and often distracts other students. The teacher has reported frequent outbursts and difficulty following classroom rules."]. These challenges are significantly impacting [his/her] ability to succeed academically.
I am including copies of [List Included Documents, e.g., recent report card, private psychologist's report, teacher emails].
Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. I look forward to hearing from you soon to discuss the next steps in the evaluation process.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
How to Submit the Request: It is crucial to maintain proof of submission. Send the written request via certified mail with return receipt requested. This provides you with documented confirmation that the school received your request. You can also hand-deliver the request to the school and obtain a signed and dated receipt from a school official as proof of delivery. Keep a copy of the request and all supporting documentation for your records.
Texas Education Code (TEC) §29.004 mandates a specific timeline that Katy ISD must adhere to once they receive your written request for an FIIE. The 45-school-day timeline is a critical component of the special education process. It starts the day the school district receives your written request. It is vital to track this timeline yourself to ensure the district complies with its legal obligations.
Key Milestones Within the 45 School Day Timeline:
What Counts as a School Day? A school day is defined as a day when students are in attendance for instructional purposes. Weekends, holidays, and school breaks are not counted as school days.
What to Do If the Timeline Is Not Met: If Katy ISD fails to meet the 45-school-day timeline, it is a violation of federal and state law. Document the delays in writing. You have several options, including:
The Full and Individual Initial Evaluation (FIIE) is a comprehensive assessment designed to determine if a child has a disability and, if so, what special education and related services are needed to address their individual needs. The evaluation must be conducted by qualified professionals and must be comprehensive enough to identify all of the child's special education and related service needs, regardless of whether those needs are commonly linked to the child's disability category. The FIE should never be limited to simply confirming a pre-conceived diagnosis.
Areas to be Evaluated: The specific areas evaluated will depend on the child's suspected disability and the areas of concern you raised in your initial request. However, a comprehensive FIIE should typically cover the following areas:
Evaluation Methods: The FIIE should utilize a variety of assessment methods, including:
Parental Input: Your input is crucial to the FIIE. The evaluation team must consider your observations, concerns, and information about your child's developmental history, medical history, and home environment. Make sure you actively participate in the evaluation process and provide the evaluation team with all relevant information.
The "Child Find" mandate is a critical component of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). It requires all school districts, including Katy ISD, to actively identify, locate, and evaluate all children with disabilities who reside within their jurisdiction, regardless of whether they are enrolled in public schools. This includes children who are homeschooled, attend private schools, or are suspected of having a disability but are not yet identified.
Katy ISD's Responsibilities Under Child Find:
What to Do If You Suspect Your Child Has a Disability: Even if your child is not struggling academically, or attends a private school, if you suspect they have a disability that may require special education services, you have the right to request an evaluation from Katy ISD under the Child Find mandate. Follow the instructions outlined above regarding submitting a written request for an FIIE.
Katy ISD may refuse to conduct an FIIE if they determine that there is no reasonable suspicion that your child has a disability that requires special education services. This decision must be based on the Review of Existing Data (RED). However, you have the right to challenge this decision.
Your Options When the District Refuses to Evaluate:
After the FIIE is completed, the ARD committee will meet to review the evaluation results and determine if your child meets the eligibility criteria for special education services under one of the 13 disability categories defined by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). These categories include:
ARD Committee Meeting: You, as the parent, are an integral part of the ARD committee. The ARD committee meeting is where the evaluation results are discussed, eligibility is determined, and if eligible, an Individualized Education Program (IEP) is developed.
Developing the IEP: If your child is found eligible for special education services, the ARD committee will develop an IEP. The IEP is a legally binding document that outlines your child's individual educational needs, goals, and the specific services and supports that will be provided to help them succeed. The IEP must include:
Reviewing the IEP: The ARD committee must meet at least once per year to review and revise the IEP. You have the right to request an ARD meeting at any time if you have concerns about your child's IEP. Remember, you are an active participant in the process and have the right to advocate for your child's needs.
Remember to keep detailed records of all communication with Katy ISD, including dates, times, and the content of conversations. This documentation will be valuable if you need to advocate for your child's rights or file a complaint. Seeking support from advocacy groups or legal professionals can also be beneficial in navigating the special education process.
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 4 (TEA ESC)
Parents across the region share the same TEA oversight and ESC support. These districts follow the same timelines:
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