How to Prepare for an Evaluation Planning Meeting (Oregon Parent Guide)

Written By Kayla Worley

If your child has been referred for a special education evaluation, you may be invited to an evaluation planning meeting.

For many parents, this meeting can feel overwhelming, unclear, and high-stakes. This guide will walk you through what to expect and how to prepare so you can feel more confident going in.

What Is an Evaluation Planning Meeting?

This meeting is where the school team:

  • Reviews existing information

  • Determines whether an evaluation is needed

  • Decides what areas will be assessed

If an evaluation is agreed upon, you will be asked to provide consent.

What Should the Evaluation Include?

Evaluations should be comprehensive and individualized.

Depending on your child, this may include:

  • Academic and cognitive testing

  • Social, emotional, and behavioral assessment

  • Executive functioning

  • Sensory processing

  • Communication

What You Can Ask For:

You can:

  • Ask for additional areas to be included

  • Share concerns and history

  • Request that multiple sources of data are used

You might say:

“I want to make sure the evaluation reflects the full picture of my child.”

Do You Have to Sign Consent at the Meeting?

You can:

  • Sign at the meeting

  • Or take time to review

Keep in mind that delaying consent will delay the evaluation timeline.

What Happens After Consent?

In Oregon:

  • The evaluation must be completed within 60 school days

  • If eligible, an IEP must be developed within 30 days

What Should Happen During the Evaluation Process?

Support should not pause while evaluation is happening.

You can ask about:

  • Interim supports (such as a 504 plan)

  • Behavior support planning

  • Safety planning if needed

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Focusing only on behavior instead of the full picture

  • Feeling like you need to say everything perfectly

  • Moving forward without understanding what’s included

You don’t need to have all the answers going into this meeting.

Your role is to:

  • Share your concerns

  • Ask questions

  • Make sure the evaluation reflects your child’s needs

Need Help Preparing?

If you’d like support reviewing your child’s situation and preparing for an evaluation planning meeting, I offer structured consultation to help you feel clear and confident.

Request a Consultation
Kayla Worley