Under IDEA, if a child's educational needs change, what is required from the school?

When a child's educational needs change, the school is required to carry out a re-evaluation. This is crucial under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), which mandates that schools must assess a child's situation and needs periodically and whenever there are indications that the child's educational performance may be affected by a change in their disability or needs. A re-evaluation helps to ensure that the educational program remains appropriate and that the child receives the necessary support and services tailored to their current needs.

Conducting a formal assessment is related but is part of the re-evaluation process rather than a standalone requirement. While pursuing a due process hearing pertains to disagreements regarding services or placement, it is not directly a requirement triggered by changes in educational needs. Updating parents on a monthly basis is not a formal requirement under IDEA regarding changes in educational needs; rather, parents are typically involved in the re-evaluation process and kept informed of significant developments noted during that process.