Which assessment is typically used to determine eligibility for special education services?

The comprehensive psychoeducational evaluation is typically used to determine eligibility for special education services because it provides a thorough assessment of a child's cognitive, academic, social, and emotional functioning. This type of evaluation often includes various standardized tests, observations, and interviews, allowing educational diagnosticians and multidisciplinary teams to gain a holistic understanding of a student's strengths and needs. This depth of information is essential for identifying whether a student meets the criteria for special education under federal and state regulations.

In contrast, standardized state assessments primarily measure student achievement against state educational standards and may not provide the detailed information needed for eligibility decisions. Informal classroom assessments are useful for monitoring student progress and instructional effectiveness but are not formal enough to establish eligibility for special education services. Daily classroom quizzes assess specific content knowledge and can inform instruction but do not offer the comprehensive evaluation required to determine eligibility for special education.