Start an IEP Evaluation in Denver, Colorado - Policy

Education Colorado 3 Minutes Read · published February 07, 2026 Flag of Colorado

In Denver, Colorado, parents can begin the process to determine whether their child qualifies for special education and related services through a formal Individualized Education Program (IEP) evaluation. This guide explains common steps, who to contact, how to request an evaluation, and what to expect at each stage so families can act promptly and with documentation.

Overview: How the process begins

Most IEP evaluations start with a referral or request from a parent, guardian, teacher, or community provider. After a referral, the school district must obtain informed parental consent before conducting assessments and collecting records. The process typically includes screening, formal assessments, an eligibility determination, and an IEP meeting when eligibility is found.

  1. Submit a written request or referral to the student’s school or the district special education office.
  2. Provide existing records, reports, or observations to help the evaluation team.
  3. Respond to the district’s request for parental consent for evaluation.
  4. Participate in assessment and the eligibility meeting if invited.
  5. If eligible, attend the IEP meeting to develop goals and services.
Start by writing a dated referral letter to the school and keep a copy for your records.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement and dispute resolution for special education evaluations and IEPs in Denver are handled through the school district processes and state and federal complaint and hearing systems. The Denver Public Schools special education office administers evaluations and IEP implementation for students in DPS schools; parents may also file state complaints with the Colorado Department of Education or request due process under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Denver Public Schools Special Education[1] Colorado Department of Education Special Education[2] IDEA federal resources[3]

Monetary fines for IDEA noncompliance are not imposed directly on parents; specific fine amounts are not specified on the cited pages. Remedies and enforcement typically involve corrective actions, written findings, required corrective steps, and the possibility of compensatory services. If the district fails to act, parents can pursue:

  • Due process hearings and administrative decisions.
  • State complaint investigations by the Colorado Department of Education.
  • Complaints to the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs or Office for Civil Rights.
If you file a complaint, keep records of dates, communications, and documents submitted.

Applications & Forms

District procedures and referral forms vary; the official DPS special education page lists contact and procedural information but specific form names, filing fees, and deadlines are not specified on the cited page. Parents should request written referral or consent forms from the child’s school or the DPS special education office.[1]

Action Steps for Parents

  • Write and deliver a dated referral letter to your child’s school and request a receipt.
  • Contact the district special education office to confirm next steps and available forms.
  • Provide consent in writing if you agree to the evaluation; keep a copy.
  • Attend eligibility and IEP meetings; request explanations and copies of reports.
  • If unsatisfied, file a state complaint or request due process; record deadlines and keep all correspondence.
Ask for timelines in writing and note the date you provided consent to start the evaluation clock.

FAQ

How do I request an IEP evaluation?
Submit a dated written referral to your child’s school or contact the district special education office to request an evaluation. Keep a copy of all communications.
What happens after I give consent for evaluation?
The district will conduct assessments by qualified staff, collect records, and schedule an eligibility meeting to review results and determine whether an IEP is needed.
Can I appeal a decision I disagree with?
Yes. You may file a state complaint with the Colorado Department of Education or request a due process hearing under IDEA; follow timelines and procedures listed by the district and CDE.

How-To

  1. Draft a dated, signed referral letter describing your concerns and deliver it to the school principal or special education coordinator.
  2. Call the district special education office to confirm receipt and ask for next steps and any required forms.
  3. Provide written consent for evaluation when the district requests it and retain a copy.
  4. Attend assessments and the eligibility meeting; request written reports and an IEP if eligible.
  5. If needed, file a state complaint or request due process; use the district and CDE contacts to learn deadlines.

Key Takeaways

  • Start with a dated written referral to your school and keep records.
  • Consent in writing is required before formal evaluations begin.
  • Dispute options include state complaints and due process hearings.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] Denver Public Schools - Special Education
  2. [2] Colorado Department of Education - Special Education
  3. [3] U.S. Department of Education - IDEA

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