This report describes a negotiated evaluation model used to examine the effectiveness of 10 regional center cooperatives (RCCs) that assist small rural New Mexico school districts in implementing provisions of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. The 9-month evaluation aimed to determine the scope of existing RCC services, the distribution of funding to member school districts, and the feasibility of RCCs assuming fiscal responsibility for program implementation. Evaluation consisted of 12 steps involving extensive consultation and negotiation with program stakeholders, including representatives from school districts, state agencies, school boards, parent organizations, and other groups who would be affected by study outcomes. The development phase of the evaluation included organization of available data, identification of major stakeholders, and input from stakeholders in the development and refinement of survey and interview instruments. The implementation phase involved visiting RCC sites to gather additional data, conduct interviews, and compile and analyze data. The last phase involved formulating options and recommendations and giving stakeholders the opportunity to disagree with interpretation of the findings and to modify recommendations. The negotiated evaluation model promoted educational change by involving stakeholders in the evaluation process and formulation of recommendations. This model is easily replicable and can be adapted to evaluations of programs serving various student populations. Contains a figure outlining the evaluation process. (LP)