Which best describes a purpose of a Full and Individual Initial Evaluation (FIIE)?

• A. Determine if a student is eligible for special education services
• B. Provide classroom accommodations for all students
• C. Diagnose a medical condition
• D. Evaluate teacher performance

Answer: (A)

A Full and Individual Initial Evaluation is used to determine whether a student has a disability and needs special education services under IDEA. It is a comprehensive, formal process that gathers information from multiple sources—tests, observations, and input from parents and teachers—across several areas such as cognitive abilities, academic achievement, communication, social-emotional development, and adaptive behavior. The evaluation is conducted with parental consent and the results establish eligibility for special education and guide the development of an IEP if eligible. It’s not about providing accommodations for all students, diagnosing a medical condition, or evaluating teacher performance. If the student isn’t found eligible, the district may still offer general education supports, but not special education services.