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 suspect your child may have a disability that is affecting their ability to succeed in school within the Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City Independent School District (SCUCISD), you have the right to request a special education evaluation. This evaluation can help determine if your child is eligible for special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Texas state law.
The most important step is to make your request in writing. This creates a documented record of your concerns and triggers the school district's legal obligations. The written request should be directed to the school principal, special education director, or your child's teacher. You can also deliver the request directly to the SCUCISD Special Education Department.
Your letter should clearly state: "I am requesting a full and individual initial evaluation for my child, [Child's Full Name], born on [Child's Date of Birth], because I suspect they have a disability that is affecting their educational performance."
Be specific. Include details about your child's challenges, such as difficulties in reading, writing, math, attention, or social skills. Provide examples of observed behaviors or academic struggles. Mention any previous interventions or strategies attempted at home or school and their effectiveness. Also include any medical diagnoses or relevant information from doctors, therapists, or other professionals.
Keep a copy of your written request for your records and consider sending it via certified mail with return receipt requested to ensure proof of delivery.
Texas law mandates specific timelines for special education evaluations. Once SCUCISD receives your written request, they have 15 school days to decide if they will proceed with the evaluation. This is called the "consent to evaluate" phase. They will either provide you with written notice of their intent to evaluate and a consent form to sign, or they will provide you with Prior Written Notice explaining why they are refusing to evaluate.
If SCUCISD decides to evaluate and you provide your written consent, they have 45 school days from the date they receive your consent to complete the Full and Individual Evaluation (FIE). This 45-day timeline is strictly enforced under Texas law.
If the district seeks an extension, they must obtain your written consent to extend the 45-day timeline. Do not feel pressured to grant an extension if you feel it is unnecessary.
The Full and Individual Evaluation (FIE) must assess all areas of suspected disability. This means that if you suspect your child has a learning disability, the evaluation must include assessments of reading, writing, and math. If you suspect an emotional disturbance, the evaluation must include assessments of emotional and behavioral functioning.
The evaluation team must include qualified professionals who are trained to administer and interpret the assessments. The team should also include you, the parent, as a vital member. The evaluation must consider information from various sources, including your input, classroom observations, standardized tests, and medical records.
The FIE should identify your child's strengths and weaknesses, determine if your child has a disability under IDEA, and describe the educational needs resulting from the disability.
SCUCISD has a legal obligation under "Child Find" to identify, locate, and evaluate all children with disabilities residing within its boundaries who are in need of special education and related services, regardless of whether they are enrolled in public school. This means they cannot ignore concerns about a child's development, even if the child is homeschooled or attends a private school within the district.
If you believe SCUCISD is failing to meet its Child Find obligations, you can file a complaint with the Texas Education Agency (TEA).
If SCUCISD refuses to conduct an evaluation, they must provide you with Prior Written Notice explaining the reasons for their refusal. You have the right to disagree with this decision and pursue other options.
You can request a meeting with the school to discuss your concerns and try to reach an agreement. You can also pursue mediation or a formal due process hearing with the TEA to challenge the school district's decision.
Once the FIE is complete, an Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) committee meeting will be scheduled. You, as the parent, are a critical member of the ARD committee. At the ARD meeting, the evaluation results will be discussed, and a decision will be made about whether your child is eligible for special education services.
If your child is found eligible, the ARD committee will develop an Individualized Education Program (IEP) to meet your child's unique needs. The IEP will outline specific goals, accommodations, and services to help your child succeed in school. You have the right to participate fully in the development of the IEP and to disagree with any aspect of it. Remember to actively participate, ask questions, and advocate for your child's educational needs throughout the entire 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 20 (TEA ESC)
Parents across the region share the same TEA oversight and ESC support. These districts follow the same timelines:
Northside ISDNorth East ISDSan Antonio ISDComal ISDJudson ISDEvery toolkit in one bundle — ARD Prep, Behavior Defense, Dyslexia, ADHD, Autism Supplement, and the Accommodations Encyclopedia.
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