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FAQ: Cognitive Diagnostic
Associates.
At Cognitive Diagnostic Associates comprises a diverse group of dedicated
professionals, including psychologists, speech pathologists, occupational therapists,
adapted physical education specialists, and more.
We specialize in conducting Special Education Testing through Independent Educational Evaluations (IEEs). We offer expert support for educational evaluations for your student, funded by the district and incurred at no cost to the parent.
We distinguish ourselves as the largest special education entity in the nation. Setting us apart through our in-depth understanding of IDEA federal regulations, state education codes, and strong community connections in each office we serve. Your specialized team is dedicated to supporting your child on their educational journey, offering a level of support unmatched by any other office.
An Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) is an impartial assessment carried out by a qualified examiner unaffiliated with the school district. It is commonly sought when parents disagree with a district assessment, providing an additional perspective to address concerns and ensure a comprehensive understanding of the student’s needs.
Reach out to us and we’ll arrange a complimentary 15-minute Zoom call to discuss any concerns you may have. It is your educational right to submit a written request for assessment, and the school district is obligated to respond within 15 days, either with an assessment plan or a Prior Written Notice (PWN).
The ideal time to make this request is typically at the conclusion of a meeting. However, it is crucial that the request be submitted in written form, usually through email, addressed to a permanent individual such as a school staff member, psychologist, principal, or district personnel.
Not necessarily. Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), parents have the right to request an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) at public expense if they disagree with a district’s evaluation. The district must either agree to fund the IEE or initiate a due process hearing to defend its own assessment.
Anticipate a detailed report that will be thoroughly explained and discussed with the IEP team. Our primary objective is to employ data-driven decision-making to meaningfully support the IEP document and determine the necessary services for your child. You will be an active participant in an IEP meeting where the external evaluation findings will be presented and seamlessly integrated into the IEP document.
It depends—there are instances when it’s suitable, but most of the time, it isn’t. While families believe it expedites the process, it often ends up prolonging it, leading to more frustration. The school may “consider” the report but will still proceed with its own assessment.
It is advisable to enlist the services of a licensed educational psychologist for aligning assessments with an educational diagnosis, ensuring compliance with federal regulations and state education codes. Clinical psychologists, while valuable, may have limited expertise in this specific domain. Nevertheless, our staff includes clinical psychologists for cases that necessitate medical diagnoses within the continuum of care.