Should My Child Get Tested at School or With a Private Evaluator?
Students are entitled access to testing from their school districts through Federal law (IDEA). Students in private and parochial schools also have access to these resources through the district in which their school is located. Once testing (often referred to as an “IEP evaluation”) has been requested and consented to by parents, the district has 60 days to complete the evaluation and present their findings. These evaluations strictly serve the purpose of identifying disabilities that require individualized education and educational goals. Disabilities are not diagnosed, yet merely identified as areas needing support in school. After the evaluation is complete, parents will meet with the school team to review results and potential implementation of an IEP or other possible outcomes.
Private evaluations by qualified professionals (typically a licensed clinical psychologist) typically include more in-depth educational testing and can provide diagnoses. Additionally, while school evaluations are focused solely on goals in that setting, private evaluations will provide recommendations for parents, extracurricular interventions, medication, and mental health support, if applicable. Essentially, there are no limits in a private evaluation as to what areas can be assessed, the types of recommendations made, and the time spent with families. For parents wanting a comprehensive understanding of their student’s learning profile, potential diagnoses, and guidance on how to best support them, a private evaluation is a better match.
Given these differences, many families prefer to have a private evaluation, or make seek out a private evaluator following an IEP evaluation if their questions are not sufficiently answered. By going through their school, evaluation services are free. However, some parents find that their requests for school evaluations are minimized or delayed, which can be frustrating. Similarly, there may be disappointed in the findings or limited amount of guidance offered in these evaluations. Both options – school-based and private evaluations – have their benefits and drawbacks and should be considered carefully.
For the best place to start, discuss your concerns and questions with your school and seek a free consultation with a licensed psychologist like Dr. Fox.
