The purpose of an IEP is to provide a disabled child with specialized or individualized assistance in school. In order for an IEP to be developed for a child, school personnel must first evaluate the child and identify a qualifying disability. Though the evaluation can be initiated by either a parent or a teacher, the evaluation can not be performed without the parent's consent. Even if a specific disability, such as hearing loss, is suspected, the evaluation for a disability must encompass all areas of the child's development.