Public Law 105-17 (1997) aimed to increase what aspect of the evaluation process for students with disabilities?

Public Law 105-17, also known as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Amendments of 1997, significantly emphasized the importance of parental involvement in the evaluation process for students with disabilities. The law aimed to enhance the participation of parents in the decision-making processes by requiring that they be notified and given the opportunity to contribute their insights regarding their child's evaluation and educational needs. This marks a crucial step toward a more collaborative approach in developing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), ensuring that families are actively engaged and have a voice in their child's education.

This legislative change recognizes that parents provide valuable knowledge about their child's history, strengths, and specific needs, all of which can directly impact the quality and effectiveness of the educational interventions provided. Through enhanced parental participation and consent, IDEA sought to create a more inclusive framework that respects and empowers families, thereby improving outcomes for students with disabilities.