Understanding the Special Education Full and Individual Initial Evaluation (FIIE) Timeline in Texas

Introduction

As a Special Education Director, understanding the intricacies of the Special Education Full and Individual Initial Evaluation (FIIE) timeline is crucial for ensuring compliance and providing appropriate educational support to students with special needs. This blog will delve into the specific timelines and procedures involved in the FIIE process in Texas, offering insights and guidance for school districts, educators, and parents.

Receiving Consent for FIIE

The FIIE process begins when a school district receives written consent from a student's parent or legal guardian. This applies to students under five years of age by September 1 who are not enrolled in a public or charter school, as well as those in private or home school settings. Once consent is received, the timeline for completing the evaluation is set in motion.

Evaluation Timeline Based on Consent Date

• Consent received at least 45 school days before the last day of instruction:
  • If the student is present fewer than three days, the FIIE report must be completed within 45 school days following consent.
  • If the student has been absent three or more days, the timeline extends to 45 school days plus the number of days absent.
• Consent received 35-44 school days before the last day of instruction:
  • If the student is present fewer than three days, the report must be completed by June 30 of the year.
  • If the student has been absent three or more days, the report must be completed 45 school days plus the number of days absent, potentially extending into the following school year.
• Consent received less than 35 school days before the last instructional day:
  • The report must be completed within 45 school days following consent, extending into the next school year if necessary.

ARD Committee Timeline

Following the completion of the FIIE report, the ARD (Admission, Review, and Dismissal) committee must convene within 30 calendar days to make decisions regarding eligibility and the Individualized Education Program (IEP) placement. If this 30th day falls during the summer when school is not in session, the ARD meeting must occur no later than the 15th school day of the subsequent school year. In cases where the FIIE report recommends extended school year (ESY) services, the ARD must meet as soon as possible after the report's completion.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is considered the "first day" of the initial evaluation timeline? The first day is the school day following the date written consent is received by the local education agency (LEA).
• When are absences added to the initial evaluation timeline? Absences are counted once the student has missed three or more school days, as per the Student Attendance Accounting Handbook.
• When must a copy of the written FIIE report be provided to the parent? It must be given as soon as possible after completion and no later than five school days before the ARD meeting or by June 30, if applicable.
• What if a student transfers to another LEA during the evaluation process? The new LEA must coordinate with the previous LEA to ensure prompt evaluation completion, and the original timeline does not apply if the new LEA is making sufficient progress and a new completion date is agreed upon.

Conclusion

Navigating the FIIE timeline requires meticulous attention to detail and a clear understanding of the legal requirements. By adhering to these timelines and ensuring effective communication with parents and educators, school districts can provide the necessary support for students with special needs. For more information, please follow this link.