Which of the following is NOT a role of the special education teacher in an evaluation process?

• A. Ensuring compliance with legal regulations
• B. Making final determinations of eligibility
• C. Collaborating with other professionals to collect data
• D. Communicating findings with families

Answer: (B)

The role of making final determinations of eligibility for special education services generally falls to a team of professionals, which may include school psychologists and administrators, rather than being solely the function of the special education teacher. While the special education teacher plays a significant role in the evaluation process—such as collecting information, conducting assessments, and contributing to discussions about a student's needs—they do not make the final eligibility decision alone. This decision is made collectively by a team, often including input from various stakeholders based on comprehensive evaluations and data.

The other roles—ensuring compliance with legal regulations, collaborating with other professionals to collect data, and communicating findings with families—are all integral parts of a special education teacher's responsibilities. Ensuring compliance with laws like IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) is critical in protecting students' rights. Collaborating with professionals ensures a broad range of assessments and perspectives are considered, and effective communication with families is essential in keeping them informed and involved in their child's education.