It sounds like you are in Idaho, correct?
No — your daughter does not have to switch classes in order to be tested for an IEP.
Here’s how it actually works under federal law and Idaho’s rules:
1. Right to an Evaluation
Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), any parent can request a special education evaluation in writing.
The school must respond to that request — either by getting your written consent and starting the evaluation, or by giving you a written notice explaining why they are refusing.
They cannot require your child to change classes as a precondition for testing.
2. Interventions vs. Evaluation
Many schools talk about “interventions” or “Response to Intervention (RTI)” before testing. Interventions can be helpful data, but IDEA is clear: schools may not use RTI or class changes to delay or deny an evaluation.
If the school believes classroom interventions are necessary, they can run those alongside the evaluation process — but your daughter’s access to testing is not contingent on her class placement.
3. What You Can Do
Write a formal, dated request for a special education evaluation. Include concerns about her anxiety, ADHD-inattentive, and possible learning disability.
Ask specifically for testing in reading, writing, math, processing speed, working memory, and executive functioning (these are core areas for identifying learning disabilities).
Keep a copy for yourself.
By law, the school has a timeline (usually 60 days in Idaho) to complete the evaluation after you consent.
Answer to the poster’s question:
No, your daughter does not have to switch classes in order to get tested for an IEP. Class changes and “interventions” can happen, but they cannot be used to block or delay your right to request an evaluation.
