Independent Educational Evaluations and How A BCBA Can Help.
A white desk with an open laptop, blank calendar, and checklist.
Independent Educational Evaluations (IEEs) are typically used when parents do not agree with the results of the public school districts’ evaluations - think of it as a second opinion that can be paid for by the school district (if the proper protocol is followed) with a professional you choose as long as they have the proper certification or credential to complete the specific assessment. This can include Psycho Educational Assessments, Assistive Technology Assessments, Speech and Language Assessments, Motor/Fine Motor Assessments, and Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs).
FBAs are typically completed by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) but may be done by other professionals in the district, like a school psychologist. FBAs look at environment, the triggers, the reactions after the behavior occurs, and goals that are Functionally Equivalent Replacement Behaviors (FERB). If needed, a Behavior Intervention Plan and specific goals may be recommended as part of the FBA, if needed.
A BCBA is someone that is trained in identifying triggers, patterns of behaviors, and necessary changes to the environment and approaches in order to reduce the need for the child to engage in the behavior altogether. They also have extensive training on analyzing behavior data and patterns. The behaviors for an FBA are typically ones that are cause for concern - elopement, property destruction, aggression, extreme refusal, or others, that are interfering with the ability to learn or access the curriculum.
If you are not happy with or don’t agree with the results of the IEP assessments, there are options available. Choosing the right provider is important - someone that aligns with you or your families values and that has a strong reputation for effective assessments. Ultimately, the choice for the IEE is up to the family as long as the provider meets the requirements for the assessment.
If you are looking for a second opinion to your child’s FBA, I am currently accepting IEE FBA clients at this time with no waitlist. I have 5-6 years of experience working in school districts and another 5 years of extensive collaboration with schools. As a neurodivergent BCBA, I may also see things that others do not. I also have years of successful experience working with a number of children who were PDA and understand that this requires a specific approach. I do meet the requirements for school districts in the Bay Area to complete FBAs and BIPs as a BCBA.
Use the “Book a Free Consultation with Me” button at the top of this page or the “Contact Me” button on the bottom of this page to see if we would be a good fit.
Please reach out to an advocate, special education lawyer, or your district for more information on how to proceed to ensure you are able to have the assessment paid for or reimbursed by the district.
See More Information on IEEs from the California Department of Education
https://www.cde.ca.gov/sp/se/lr/om031121.asp
See More Information on IEEs from Disability Rights California