Requesting an Evaluation
in Sachem CSD

How to Request a District Evaluation in Sachem CSD

To request an evaluation for your child in Sachem CSD, you must submit a written request to the school principal or the district's special education department. Your request should clearly state that you are requesting an evaluation to determine if your child has a disability that requires special education services.

Include the following in your written request:

• Your child's full name and date of birth
• Your child's school and grade
• A brief description of your concerns about your child's academic, social, emotional, or behavioral development
• Specific areas you would like evaluated (e.g., reading, writing, math, speech, behavior)
• Your contact information (phone number and email address)

Keep a copy of your request for your records. It is recommended to send the request via certified mail with return receipt requested to ensure the district receives it.

NY State Evaluation Timeline: The 60 School Day Rule

New York State regulations mandate a strict timeline for completing special education evaluations. From the date the Sachem CSD receives your signed consent for the evaluation, the district has 60 school days to complete the evaluation, convene an IEP meeting, and determine your child's eligibility for special education services.

If the district fails to meet this timeline, you have the right to file a complaint with the New York State Education Department. Documented delays could strengthen a later IEE request if needed. It is important to maintain communication with the district and document all interactions.

Your Right to an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) at District Expense

You have the right to obtain an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) of your child if you disagree with the evaluation conducted by Sachem CSD. An IEE is an evaluation conducted by a qualified professional who is not employed by the school district.

If you request an IEE at public expense, the district must either:

1. Pay for the IEE; or
2. Initiate a due process hearing to show that its evaluation is appropriate.

If the district initiates a due process hearing and the hearing officer determines that the district's evaluation is appropriate, you still have the right to an IEE, but it will be at your own expense. The results of any IEE, whether paid for privately or by the district, must be considered by the school district in making decisions about your child's special education program.

Types of Evaluations: What to Ask For

Depending on your child's needs, you may want to request specific types of evaluations. Here are some common types:

• Psychoeducational/Neuropsychological Evaluation: Assesses cognitive abilities, academic skills, and learning styles.
• Speech and Language Evaluation: Assesses communication skills, including articulation, fluency, language comprehension, and expression.
• Occupational Therapy (OT) Evaluation: Assesses fine motor skills, sensory processing, and adaptive skills.
• Physical Therapy (PT) Evaluation: Assesses gross motor skills, balance, and coordination.
• Functional Behavioral Assessment (FBA): Identifies the triggers and functions of challenging behaviors to develop a behavior intervention plan.

Discuss your concerns with your child's teachers and other professionals to determine which evaluations are most appropriate.