Reevaluation (triennial)
Last updated
A reevaluation is a new look at a student's needs and eligibility, required at least every three years unless the parent and school agree it is not needed.
Topic: Evaluation and assessment
In plain terms
Because it usually happens every three years, the reevaluation is often called the triennial. It can also happen sooner if the parent or teacher requests it or conditions warrant, but generally not more than once a year unless both sides agree. The team first reviews existing data and decides whether new testing is needed. Parent consent is required for new assessments.
How it shows up in an IEP
A reevaluation is a good time to check whether goals still target the right needs. Updated scores can show new strengths, needs the IEP is missing, or that a student no longer needs special education in an area.
Example
At a triennial review, the team reviews existing data, decides no new cognitive testing is needed, and orders updated language and writing assessments because those goals were not met.
Not the same as Annual review
The annual review updates the IEP every year. The reevaluation reassesses eligibility and needs, at least every three years. Read the definition of Annual review.
The rule
Federal reference: 34 CFR §300.303, 34 CFR §300.305.
Related terms
- Evaluation (special education)A special education evaluation is the set of assessments a school uses to decide whether a child has a disability and what services the child needs.
- Annual reviewAn annual review is the IEP meeting, held at least once every 12 months, where the team reviews progress and writes the next year's IEP.
- Eligibility determinationEligibility determination is the team decision, made after an evaluation, about whether a child has a disability under IDEA and needs special education.
- Informed consentInformed consent is a parent's written, voluntary agreement to a specific school action after being fully told what it involves, and it can be revoked.
On IEP Atlas
This page describes special education terms and federal rules in general terms and is not legal advice. Our editorial policy explains how IEP Atlas writes and reviews content. Browse all 244 terms.