Navigating Special Education Evaluations in Cincinnati Public Schools: A Parent's Guide

Navigating the world of special education evaluations can feel overwhelming, especially when you're trying to secure the best support for your child within Cincinnati Public Schools (CPS). You might be juggling questions like: How does the evaluation process work? What are my rights? Where do I turn for help? It’s a lot, but you’re not alone. This guide is here to be your calm, knowledgeable companion, walking you through each step, explaining key terms, and pointing you to resources designed to support your family.

CPS follows a clear process to identify and support students with disabilities through special education services. When concerns arise about your child's learning, behavior, or development, an evaluation helps determine if your child qualifies for special education and related services.

Evaluations are thorough and look at many areas like thinking skills, academic progress, communication, social-emotional growth, and physical health. A team of qualified professionals gathers information from tests, observations, your input, and teacher feedback to get a full picture of your child’s strengths and challenges.

Why does this matter? Because this evaluation forms the foundation for an Individualized Education Program (IEP) tailored to your child’s needs.

Evaluations are about understanding your child fully so the school can provide the right supports. Without them, your child might miss out on important services.

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Child Find is a proactive program designed to identify children who might need special education services—even those not currently in school.

Wondering if your child might qualify? You can refer your child to Child Find by contacting the CPS Department of Student Services via phone or email. Early identification can make a big difference.

How to make a referral:

1. Reach out to CPS Department of Student Services by phone or email.
2. Share your concerns about your child’s development.
3. Request an evaluation through the Child Find program.

Learn more about Child Find here.

Keep notes about your observations and any concerns to share during the referral—it helps the team understand your child better.

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CPS knows this process can be tough. That’s why they offer several resources to support you:

Virtual sessions led by District Parent Champion LaRonda Thomas where you can ask questions, share concerns, and learn how to advocate effectively. These sessions happen on Mondays and Wednesdays, with interpreter services available if needed.

How to join:

• Check the CPS website for session times.
• Register or join virtually.

More on Parent Advocacy Hours

Educational sessions focused on advocacy, student achievement, and parenting skills. These help you build confidence and skills to support your child’s education and well-being.

Explore Parent Academy offerings

These programs connect you with experts and other parents, helping you feel capable and supported as you navigate the system.

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You have the right to request an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) at public expense if you disagree with CPS’s evaluation results.

1. Understand your concerns: Write down why you disagree with the evaluation.
2. Submit a written request: Send a letter or email to the CPS Department of Student Services stating you want an IEE.
3. Wait for CPS to respond: They will review your request and either approve the IEE or explain their decision.

This gives you a chance to get a second opinion from an outside expert.

Details on IEEs

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CPS believes families are key partners in education. Getting involved helps your child succeed.

Here are some ways to engage:

• Attend Parent Advocacy Hours and Parent Academy sessions to learn and connect.
• Join parent organizations or volunteer to have a voice in school decisions.
• Communicate regularly with your child’s teachers and school staff.

Building this partnership can feel daunting, but remember, every question you ask and every meeting you attend helps your child’s team understand their needs better.

More on family engagement

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• Prepare ahead: Write down questions and concerns before meetings.
• Bring a trusted friend or advocate if you want extra support.
• Ask for clarification if anything is unclear—no question is too small.
• Keep a folder or digital record of all communications and documents.
• Follow up: After meetings, summarize what was discussed and next steps in writing.

These steps help you stay organized and confident.

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Navigating special education evaluations in Cincinnati Public Schools can feel like a lot, but step by step, you’re making progress. Remember, the Child Find program is your entry point, evaluations give the school the info they need to help your child, and CPS offers programs to support you along the way.

If it ever feels overwhelming, tools like NeuroMule are here to lighten your load. They help you manage information, keep track of meetings and paperwork, and gain insights to advocate effectively.

You’re doing important work. Take a deep breath, lean on the resources around you, and know that with a little support and the right tools, you’re a capable, confident advocate for your child’s education journey.