Under federal law, what right do parents of students with disabilities have regarding evaluations?

Parents of students with disabilities are entitled under federal law to obtain an independent evaluation if they are dissatisfied with the evaluation conducted by the school. This right is anchored in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), which ensures that parents have a voice in the special education process and that their concerns are addressed.

When parents believe that the school's evaluation does not accurately reflect their child's needs or abilities, they are permitted to seek an independent evaluation at the school district's expense if they disagree with the results. This ensures that parents have the opportunity to access a second opinion and potentially seek additional support or services based on different findings.

The other options do not accurately represent specific rights under federal law in the context of evaluations for students with disabilities. While parents can refuse services or seek changes within school choices, these actions do not directly relate to their rights concerning evaluations and their accuracy as outlined in federal regulations.