Who can initiate a referral request to begin the evaluation process?

• A. Transportation department
• B. School cafeteria staff
• C. Parent/guardian
• D. School nurse only

Answer: (C)

A parent or guardian initiates the evaluation process because, under most special education frameworks, they have the right to request an initial evaluation for their child at no cost. This ensures parental involvement and consent is obtained before any assessments begin. While educators and other school staff can raise concerns and recommend an evaluation, the formal referral to start the process is grounded in the parent’s right to initiate it. Departments like transportation or cafeteria staff aren’t typically involved in identifying or initiating assessments, and while a school nurse may voice concerns, the key point is that the parent/guardian has the recognized authority to start the evaluation.