The School Won't Pay for an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE)

You disagree with the school's evaluation and want your own—at their expense. Here's how the law works.

Mary, Special Education Advocate
Expert Reviewedby Mary

"I've sat at over 500 IEP tables."

I'm Mary, a Special Education Advocate and the founder of The Advocate Ally. I created this special education resource because too many parents feel pressured to accept generic, "cookie-cutter" IEPs.

The guidance below is grounded in the same practical, document-based questions I raise in IEP meetings every day. Use it to ask for clearer, more individualized support for your child.

Mary

Founder, The Advocate Ally

What's Happening

You disagree with the school's evaluation of your child. You've requested an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) at public expense, but the school is refusing to pay for it.

Your Legal Rights

Under IDEA, you have the right to an IEE at public expense if you disagree with the school's evaluation. The school must either pay for the IEE or file for due process to defend their evaluation.

  • You have the right to an IEE at public expense when you disagree with the school's evaluation.
  • The school must either fund the IEE or file for due process to defend their evaluation—they cannot simply say no.
  • You do NOT have to explain why you disagree with the school's evaluation.
  • The school must consider IEE results in IEP development.

What To Do Right Now

1

Submit a written request: 'I disagree with the school's evaluation dated [date] and request an Independent Educational Evaluation at public expense.'

2

If the school refuses, they must file for due process within a reasonable time—if they don't, they must fund the IEE.

3

Choose a qualified evaluator (you are not limited to the school's list in most cases).

4

Once completed, request an IEP meeting to review the IEE results.

Don't Go Into This Blind

Before you send a letter or file a complaint, start with the written IEP. The audit can flag documented gaps, weak language, and sections that may deserve a written question or closer professional review.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to tell the school why I disagree?
No. You simply state that you disagree. You are not required to provide reasons.
Can the school limit which evaluator I choose?
They can set reasonable criteria (e.g., must be licensed), but they cannot force you to use only their preferred evaluators.
What if the IEE finds different results?
The IEP team must 'consider' the IEE results. While they don't have to adopt every recommendation, they must address each finding.
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