Comprehensive

Multi-Step Assessment Sequence for a Comprehensive Psychoeducational Evaluation

The Psychologists in our Psychoeducational Department administer a variety of tests designed to answer specific questions regarding a student’s academic and social/emotional needs. This is accomplished through interviews, consultations, review of previous evaluations, and administration of a battery of tests.

When the questions are specific, such as a desire to identify a child’s ability, concerns about developmental issues, knowledge about a student’s reading skills, attentional issues, perceptual-motor development, emotional needs, etc., a comprehensive assessment to answer those particular queries is administered.

If a student appears to have a learning issue that is not specific, it is important to learn as much as possible in order to make a correct diagnosis. To accomplish this, we utilize the following multi-step action sequence:

1. Parents are asked to complete a detailed developmental history questionnaire that addresses the child’s physical and social development.
2. Parents meet with the psychologist who will evaluate the student to offer further impressions.
3. The psychologist reviews all school reports, previous evaluations, and other pertinent data regarding the student’s academic, medical, and social development.
4. With the parents’ consent, the psychologist speaks with the student’s teacher; and, when indicated, visits the school to learn how he or she functions in the classroom.
5. If applicable, and with the parents’ consent, conversations will also be held with the student’s tutor, therapist, and other involved individuals.
6. The formal evaluation may take place over several sessions and can range from six to nine hours.
7. The student receives an individually administered battery of tests to measure intellectual ability, perceptual and perceptual-motor functioning, language and processing skills, executive functioning, academic achievement, learning style, visual and auditory memory, attention and concentration, and social/emotional adjustment.
8. Following the assessment, the parents meet with the evaluator to discuss the findings and recommendations.
9. The student also has an individual session to learn the results and discuss the recommendations.
10. The psychologist provides a thorough written report that includes recommendations for the teachers and the parents.
11. Parents are asked to read the report before it is submitted to the school.
12. The psychologist is available to speak to those who will be involved with the student and answer any questions that may be raised from the findings and/or the report.