If you feel that the school district didn't do enough testing, you as the advocate for your child can request and Independent evaluation at public expense. When asking for this, you MUST write a letter and be specific about your reasoning. This is not a cheap expense. If you do this on your own, it will cost you $2500 + to do this and most of it is not covered by your insurance. If you specify your concerns, it is easier to get this done. Remember advocating is not just about fighting. You are trying to nicely get along with these people and get them to understand your child's individual needs. Even though it might seem like a daunting task, writing a letter and spelling out your reasoning is a CYA (Cover your A$$) move. If you ever need to go to court or file for due process, you can show the judge that you made an attempt to work with the school district with your letter, dated and signed. Also remember to cc other members of your team. Your developmental pediatrician, child's teacher, etc. The more people who know the merrier. Everybody needs to be on the same page and in addition, the more that know, the more the school district can't play games with you. Below is a link to an actual letter I wrote that spells out my concerns and the reasoning behind asking for this type of testing. Because it certainly is not cheap, I felt compelled to address everything and prove that he needed the test, and not just because I want him to have it done. Remember you must be compelling in your argument to get things done. If you are not convincing, you may have to go a tougher route ( mediation, due process). This is your first step towards looking at your child's learning style and grasping if what you THINK is true, is confirmed.
Letter Asking for Independent Evaluation
Let me know what you think. I left our names in it so that you could see my actual thought process and what is specific to him.
