What is a Review of Existing Evaluation Data (REED)?
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"Review of Existing Evaluation Data" (REED): A REED is an critical step in the special education process. The REED involves examining a student's prior assessments and evaluation data to determine whether additional assessments are needed or if the existing data is sufficient to make decisions about a student’s educational needs and eligibility for special education services. The REED process is essential to ensure that students with disabilities receive appropriate and individualized educational services. The REED helps educational professionals make informed decisions about a student's educational needs based on existing data and prevents unnecessary or redundant assessments.
Here's a basic overview of how a REED typically works within the context of special education services:
Initial Evaluation: If a student is referred for special education services, it is required that an initial comprehensive evaluation is conducted. If a student has already been evaluated either by the school or other providers, a REED should be completed to determine what additional evaluations might be needed. Completing a REED is crucial to determine if the existing data is comprehensive enough to make informed decisions about the student's eligibility for special education services and to develop an Individualized Education Program (IEP).
Decision-Making: Based on the REED, the IEP team (that must include the parent or guardian) decides whether more assessments are necessary to gather additional information about the student's educational needs. If the existing data is sufficient, the team can proceed with developing the IEP. If more information is needed, additional assessments are conducted.
Evaluation and Eligibility Timeline: All initial comprehensive evaluations must be completed within 60 days of signed consent from the parent or guardian (Prior Written Notice of Informed Parental Consent to Evaluate). The Prior Written Notice of Informed Parental Consent to Evaluate must be signed within 15 days of the request to have the student evaluated for special education services. A REED can be completed at anytime during this process. Completing a REED does not affect the timeline and should not cause any delays.
Individualized Education Program (IEP): If the student is found eligible for special education services based on evaluation data, observations and parent input. The IEP team creates an individualized education program (IEP).
Ongoing Monitoring and Review: The IEP is a working document that must be reviewed at least annually to ensure that it continues to meet the student's needs. The REED process may be revisited during these IEP reviews to determine if new assessments or adjustments to the IEP are necessary. A REED must be completed at least every three years to update the student’s present levels of functioning and confirm eligibility for special education services. I strongly recommend that comprehensive evaluations in all areas potentially affected by a student’s disability are completed at least every three years even if it is clear that the student continues to be eligible for special education services.
More information on evaluations and testing - https://www.wrightslaw.com/info/test.index.htm