Key Component 1: Assessment
Overview
This resource covers the first step of reviewing evaluation results during an initial or triennial/reevaluation IEP meeting. It provides guidance on explaining assessment outcomes, determining special education eligibility, addressing multiple eligibility areas, handling situations where a student does not qualify, documenting discussions, and managing disagreements about eligibility decisions.
TPE Alignment:
- TPE 5.1 - Apply knowledge of the purposes, characteristics, and appropriate uses of different types of assessments (e.g., diagnostic, informal, formal, progress-monitoring, formative, summative, and performance) to design and administer classroom assessments, including use of scoring rubrics.
- TPE 5.2 - Collect and analyze assessment data from multiple measures and sources to plan and modify instruction and document students' learning over time.
- TPE 5.5 - Use assessment information in a timely manner to assist students and families in understanding student progress in meeting learning goals.
- TPE 5.6 - Work with specialists to interpret assessment results from formative and summative assessments to distinguish between students whose first language is English, English learners, Standard English learners, and students with language or other disabilities.
- TPE 5.8 - Use assessment data, including information from students' IEP, IFSP, ITP, and 504 plans, to establish learning goals and to plan, differentiate, make accommodations and/or modify instruction.
Navigating this Collection:
HQ IEPs > During the IEP > Key Components of the IEP Process > Key Component 1: Assessment
Printable Tools
Key Component 1: Reviewing Initial and Triennial Assessment Results with the IEP Team
This guide explains how to review and interpret assessment results during initial and triennial IEP meetings. It outlines how eligibility for special education is determined, provides tips for communicating technical information in family-friendly language, and emphasizes the importance of collaborative decision-making among team members. It also highlights what to do when there are disagreements about eligibility. TPE Alignment: TPE 5.8 - Use assessment data, including information from students' IEP, IFSP, ITP, and 504 plans, to establish learning goals and to plan, differentiate, make accommodations and/or modify instruction. Navigating ...
Videos
Unlocking Educational Benefit: Key Component 1: Assessment
This video explores how meaningful assessment lays the foundation for a high-quality, individualized education program (IEP). Viewers will learn about the RIOT framework (Review, Interview, Observe, Test) and how to gather data that reflects the whole child — not just test scores. It highlights the importance of using multiple, culturally responsive tools to identify a student’s strengths and needs, setting the stage for present levels, goals, and services. A must-watch for anyone working to ensure IEPs lead to real educational benefit and long-term success. TPE Alignment: TPE ...
Websites
Key Component 1: The Assessment Process - Downloadable Training Package
Supporting your LEA teams with our downloadable training package for Key Component #1: Assessment - complete with an agenda, Google Slides presentation, and processing guide. Click on the links below to access ready-to-use and customizable materials to help staff master the special education assessment process. It covers using the RIOT protocol and assessment checklist, reviewing results, determining eligibility, and addressing areas of disagreement effectively. TPE Alignment: TPE 5.8 - Use assessment data, including information from students' IEP, IFSP, ITP, and 504 plans, to establish learning goals and ...