Watching your child struggle in school is awful. Maybe they’re trying their best but are still behind, or maybe homework feels like a battle. Children may even share that they feel inadequate or uncomfortable in the classroom. When parents see these signs, they often begin to wonder if something more is going on—and whether special education services might help.
In Ohio, school teams complete Evaluation Team Reports (ETRs) to determine whether students qualify for special education services. Knowing when and how to request an ETR can help your child get the support they need.
What is an ETR?
An ETR is a comprehensive evaluation completed by a team of professionals to determine if a student qualifies for special education services. A student qualifies if they meet the criteria for one of the 13 disability categories under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and require specially designed instruction to meet their needs. Teachers, parents and other service providers can refer a child for an ETR.
When to Request an ETR?
Not every child who struggles in school needs special education. So, when should you consider requesting an ETR?
Persistent struggles in school
Lack of progress despite extra support like interventions or tutoring
Discrepancies between effort and outcomes—your child works hard but still struggles
Avoidance of challenging subjects
Family history of learning challenges or specific diagnoses
Concerns from teachers or specialists
If your child’s challenges are impacting their daily life
How to Request an ETR
As a parent, you have the right to request an ETR. It’s recommended to make this request in writing. Sending it by email helps ensure you have a record of the request and allows you to include everyone involved in your child’s education. Be sure to include the following in your request:
State you are formally requesting an ETR.
Provide basic information about your child, like their school, grade, teacher and date of birth.
Explain that your child is not making expected progress and why you suspect they may have a disability. Share relevant information, such as:
Progress with past and current interventions
Report card information
Test results (state or classroom)
Any outside support your child receives (tutoring, counseling, other therapies)
Support you provide at home to help with their challenges
What Happens Next?
After you request an ETR, here’s what to expect:
The school team has 30 days to respond.
They will either agree to evaluate your child or deny the request.
If they agree, the team will create an evaluation plan and ask for your consent.
The evaluation must be completed within 60 days of your consent, and the team will meet with you to review the results.
Based on the ETR, the team will determine whether your child qualifies for special education.
If your child qualifies, the team will develop an Individualized Education Program (IEP) and meet with you to review it within 30 days.
If the team decides your child does not qualify, and you disagree, you can request an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE).
Trust Yourself
As a parent, you know your child best. If your child continues to struggle in school, despite receiving support, there may be something more going on. A special education evaluation can provide insights into how your child learns, giving the team the information they need to create a plan that will best support your child.
Dr. Jennifer Murphy is an independently licensed school psychologist and the Director of Assessment at her private practice, Achievement Advantage Assessment & Services. She specializes in psychoeducational assessments, focusing on learning differences and executive functioning. Dr. Murphy is an active member of the Northern Ohio Branch of the International Dyslexia Association (NOBIDA), where she serves on the executive committee.
