In the McFarland Unified School District (MUSD), student success is measured by the ability to transition from school to a productive adult life. For students with disabilities, this means that every Individualized Education Program (IEP) must be a robust, evidence-based plan that looks toward future independence.
If you disagree with a district evaluation or feel that your child's transition goals or academic supports are insufficient, you have the legal right to an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) at public expense. This second opinion ensures your child’s educational and transition plans are based on objective clinical data, provided by an expert outside the school system.
Strengthening the Path to Independence
McFarland serves students from age 3 to 21, meaning the stakes for proper assessment are high. An IEE can provide the clarity needed for these critical milestones:
Transition Planning (ITP)
Evaluating if transition goals for high school students are measurable and actually prepare the student for work or college.
Early Intervention (Ages 3-5)
Independent assessments to determine if current preschool supports are sufficient to prepare the child for kindergarten.
specialized Learning
Independent Psychoeducational clarity for students with intellectual or physical disabilities who require highly tailored curricula.
Legal Spotlight: Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), McFarland Unified must either fund an IEE or file for a due process hearing to prove their assessment is appropriate.
Navigating the IEE Roadmap in Kern County
Securing an IEE is a formal process intended to ensure that no student’s needs are overlooked. At CAS, we provide the clinical rigor needed to advocate for MUSD families.
When Disagreement Occurs
You don't need to be an evaluation expert to request an IEE. If you believe the district's tools didn't capture the full picture of your child’s disability, you have the right to a second opinion.
Choosing Your Expert Evaluator
The law allows parents to choose a qualified clinical examiner who meets district criteria. CAS evaluators are not school employees; we are outside experts focused solely on student outcome.
Meaningful Results
An IEE from CAS results in a comprehensive report that provides clear, measurable recommendations for the IEP team. We provide the evidence needed to update goals and justify services.
Advocacy Through Informed Participation
In McFarland, parent participation is vital. If you feel the district is not proposing the appropriate supports for your child’s unique needs, an independent Psychoeducational, Speech, or Occupational Therapy evaluation provides the necessary clinical evidence to bring change to the IEP table.
Dispute Resolution Pathways
McFarland families have options when they reach an impasse with district administrators:
- Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): A collaborative local mediation process.
- Mediation: State-provided assistance to reach an agreement on IEP services.
- Due Process Hearing: Formal legal appeal to ensure your student’s FAPE rights are protected.
Bakersfield & McFarland Area Assessment Experts
Licensed Clinicians
Our experts are fully credentialed and specialize in the unique developmental needs of students ages 3-21.
Unbiased Results
We provide the independent clinical data needed to hold schools accountable for student transition and academic success.
IEP Representation
We attend the meetings to ensure our findings are heard and properly documented in the student’s IEP.
Ready to Secure Your Student's Future?
Professional, unbiased evaluations are a powerful tool for McFarland families. Secure the independent clarity your student deserves.
