Independent Child Study Team Evaluations

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At Leonard Educational Evaluations, we provide Independent CST Evaluations that are comprehensive, timely, and aligned with IDEA and state education code requirements. Whether you’re navigating a disagreement, preparing for mediation, or seeking better alignment between your child’s needs and their IEP, our evaluations help schools and families make more informed decisions.

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Trusted Special Education Assessments for IEP Eligibility, Placement, and Dispute Resolution

Are you seeking a second opinion regarding your child’s school-based evaluation? Do you disagree with a recent decision by the Child Study Team (CST) about IEP eligibility, classification, or services? You have the right to request an Independent Child Study Team Evaluation—a private, impartial assessment that meets special education legal standards while offering deeper insight into your child’s needs.

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What Is an Independent CST Evaluation?

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An Independent Child Study Team Evaluation is a school-based special education assessment conducted by a qualified professional not employed by the school district. These evaluations are often requested:

• When parents disagree with the district’s initial or triennial evaluation

• When school assessments appear incomplete, biased, or insufficient

• During due process hearings or settlement discussions

• As part of an IEE (Independent Educational Evaluation) request

• When teams require further clarity to determine classification or placement

Our Independent CST Evaluations assess the student through a school psychology lens—with a deep understanding of legal standards, classroom demands, and educational best practices.

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What’s Included in an Independent CST Evaluation

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All evaluations are tailored to the referral concerns and comply with federal and state special education guidelines. Our Independent CST Evaluations may include:

• Review of IEPs, 504 Plans, previous evaluations, report cards, and educational records

• Parent and teacher interviews

• Classroom or functional observations (in-person or virtual, if permitted)

• Standardized cognitive testing 

• Academic achievement testing 

• Social, emotional, and behavioral assessments

• Executive functioning and processing speed measures

• Functional Behavioral Assessment (FBA) or Adaptive Behavior Analysis (if requested)

• Clear, evidence-based recommendations for eligibility, supports, and services

• A legally sound written report, provided in parent-friendly and team-friendly language

Our team is experienced in working with legal timelines, district coordination, and impartial advocacy.

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When to Request an Independent CST Evaluation

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You may benefit from an Independent Child Study Team Evaluation if:

• Your child was evaluated by the CST but found ineligible for an IEP, and you disagree

• You believe the district's evaluation missed key learning, behavioral, or emotional concerns

• Your child has an IEP, but their services or placement aren’t appropriate

• You’re navigating a special education dispute, mediation, or due process case

• Your advocate or attorney recommended an independent assessment

• You want to ensure all areas of suspected disability were fully evaluated

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These evaluations support classification decisions under IDEA categories such as:

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• Specific Learning Disability (SLD)

• Emotional Disturbance (ED)

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

• Other Health Impairment (e.g., ADHD)

• Intellectual Disability

• Multiple Disabilities

• Speech/Language Impairment

• Developmental Delay

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Why Choose Leonard Educational Evaluations?

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We specialize in Independent CST Evaluations that combine clinical rigor, educational relevance, and legal defensibility. Our evaluations are:

• Led by Licensed School Psychologists & Clinicians with extensive CST experience

• Legally Defensible & Objective—designed for IEP meetings, mediation, and due process

• Collaborative with school districts, advocates, and attorneys

• Focused on Student Growth—not just classification

• Accepted by Schools Across PA, NJ, and NYC

• Available In-Person or Remote, based on district preferences

• Thorough, Timely, and Student-Centered

Whether you’re a parent seeking clarity or a district aiming for a second opinion, we offer expert evaluations that move teams forward—not into conflict.

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Schedule an Independent CST Evaluation

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If you or your child’s school team needs a second opinion on IEP eligibility, classification, or educational programming, we can help.  Click the button below to schedule your Independent Child Study Team Evaluation consultation today.