Independent Educational Evaluations (IEEs) in Connecticut: What Parents Need to Know

If your child has recently undergone a school-based evaluation and you disagree with the results, you may have heard the term “Independent Educational Evaluation” or IEE. For families navigating special education in Connecticut, understanding what an IEE is — and when to request one — can feel confusing.

An Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) in Connecticut is a private evaluation conducted by a qualified professional who is not employed by your child’s school district. IEEs are designed to provide an objective, comprehensive perspective when parents have concerns about a school’s evaluation findings, conclusions, or recommendations.

At The Cognition Crew, we work with families across Connecticut to provide independent psychoeducational evaluations that support informed decision-making and meaningful educational planning.

What Is an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE)?

An Independent Educational Evaluation is defined under special education law as an evaluation conducted by a qualified examiner who is not employed by the public agency responsible for your child’s education.

Parents in Connecticut have the right to request an IEE if they disagree with a school district’s evaluation. In certain circumstances, the district may be required to fund the IEE or initiate a due process hearing to defend its evaluation.

An IEE in Connecticut can assess areas such as:

• Cognitive abilities

• Academic achievement

• Executive functioning

• Attention

• Social-emotional functioning

• Speech and language

• Occupational therapy needs

The scope depends on the areas of concern and the original evaluation results.

When Should You Consider Requesting an IEE in Connecticut?

Families typically request an Independent Educational Evaluation when:

• They believe the school evaluation was incomplete

• Results do not match what they see at home

• A learning disability or ADHD diagnosis was not identified despite ongoing concerns

• Eligibility for special education was denied

• Recommendations feel vague or insufficient

• There are concerns about the quality or thoroughness of testing

Requesting an IEE does not mean you are in conflict with your school. It simply means you are seeking clarity. Many families pursue an IEE in Connecticut to ensure that all relevant areas of functioning have been carefully examined.

What Is the Difference Between a School Evaluation and an IEE?

A school-based evaluation is conducted by district personnel to determine eligibility for services and educational needs within the public school system.

An Independent Educational Evaluation in Connecticut is conducted by an outside professional. Because the evaluator is independent, the process often allows for:

• Extended testing time

• Broader assessment tools

• More in-depth analysis

• Detailed, individualized recommendations

• Objective interpretation

Independent evaluations often provide additional insight that strengthens collaboration and supports more informed planning.

Who Can Conduct an IEE in Connecticut?

IEEs must be conducted by qualified professionals who meet state criteria. School psychologists, clinical psychologists, speech-language pathologists, neuropsychologists, and other specialists may conduct IEEs depending on the area being assessed.

When the primary concerns involve learning, attention, executive functioning, or academic progress, many families choose a school psychologist to conduct the IEE. School psychologists are trained at the intersection of psychology and education and understand eligibility criteria, instructional frameworks, and special education systems in Connecticut.

What Happens After an IEE Is Completed?

Once an Independent Educational Evaluation in Connecticut is completed, the school district is required to consider the results. While the district is not obligated to adopt every recommendation, the findings must be reviewed and discussed by the planning and placement team (PPT).

A comprehensive IEE can:

• Clarify diagnoses

• Identify overlooked learning differences

• Strengthen eligibility cases

• Refine IEP goals

• Inform 504 plans

• Provide targeted instructional recommendations

The goal of an IEE is not confrontation — it is informed collaboration.

Frequently Asked Questions About IEEs in Connecticut

Does the school district have to pay for an IEE?
If you formally disagree with the district’s evaluation, you may request a publicly funded IEE. The district must either fund the evaluation or initiate due process to show that its evaluation was appropriate.

Can I choose my own evaluator?
Parents generally have the right to select a qualified evaluator, though districts may have reasonable criteria regarding credentials and cost limits.

Will requesting an IEE harm my relationship with the school?
Requesting an IEE is a legal right and a common part of special education processes. When handled collaboratively and professionally, it can strengthen understanding and planning.

How do I request an IEE in Connecticut?
Requests should be made in writing to your child’s school district, stating that you disagree with the evaluation and are requesting an Independent Educational Evaluation at public expense.

Independent Educational Evaluations in Connecticut: Moving Forward with Clarity

Navigating special education decisions can feel overwhelming. An Independent Educational Evaluation in Connecticut provides families with an additional layer of clarity when questions remain unanswered.

At The Cognition Crew, we conduct comprehensive, objective IEEs designed to translate data into practical next steps. Our focus is not simply identifying areas of difficulty — it is building a clear roadmap forward for students, families, and schools.

If you are considering requesting an IEE in Connecticut or would like to understand whether it may be appropriate for your child, contact us to learn more about our evaluation process and consultation services.