Extended Evaluation and Interim Placements

All programs at SCEC offer the opportunity for extended evaluations and/or Interim placements for a period of up to 45 days. Extended evaluations and interim placements are a cost-effective strategy for sending school districts. The daily rate for these services includes all specialist evaluations (including psychoeducational evaluations) and/or related services that the student requires during the placement. By providing these services in one location and at one fixed rate, districts receive the information they need at a cost that is much less than if these services were provided in-district or at specialty care centers. It is an added benefit that the student continues to receive all of their educational services during the placement.

What is the difference between Extended Evaluation and Interim Placement?

Extended Evaluations are different from Interim Alternative Educational Settings (IAES) under 34 C.F.R. § 300.530(g). An IAES is related to the discipline process under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and is considered a change in placement. An Extended Evaluation is not considered a placement, and a student’s participation in an Extended Evaluation does not constitute a change in placement.

Extended Evaluations

If the Team has determined that a student is eligible for special education and that an Extended Evaluation is appropriate, the Team from the sending school district writes a partial IEP with the information available.6 In the “Additional Information” section of the IEP, the school district should specify that an Extended Evaluation is being conducted and list the assessment(s), location where the Extended Evaluation will take place, and the estimated date of completion. In addition, the school district must complete an Extended Evaluation Form (EE-1 and EE-2)8. On this form, the district will indicate the current evaluation findings, what additional assessments need to be completed, the location where the Extended Evaluation will be completed, the anticipated completion date, and any other required information.

During the Extended Evaluation period at SCEC, the student will be provided with academic instruction, related services, behavioral stabilization strategies, and therapeutic support. Evaluations are conducted and data on student performance is collected to help the sending school district determine the most appropriate services to meet the individual student’s needs. During this time, the educational team at SCEC compiles information and obtains feedback from the sending school district, family, and outside supports to identify the student’s strengths and areas of difficulty as related to school functioning. A complete written report outlining recommendations for the student’s success is presented at the final meeting.

Interim Placements

The day school programs at SCEC offer Interim Alternative Education Settings (IAES) for students experiencing discipline challenges within their local school district. An IAES is a short-term evaluation period of up to 45 days and is considered a change in placement for the students. The interim placement provides the student with academic instruction, related services, behavior stabilization strategies and therapeutic support. Evaluations are conducted and data on student performance is collected to help the sending school district determine the appropriate placement and intervention techniques for the student. During the interim placement, the educational team compiles information and obtains feedback from the sending school district, family and outside supports to identify the student’s strengths and areas of difficulty as related to school functioning. A complete written report outlining recommendations for the student’s success is presented at the final meeting.