Frequently Asked Questions of School Psychologists
What does testing mean?
Psychologist give different assessment instruments to gain information about a
student's learning profile. For example if the concern is a student's
consistent performance above or below the curriculum the psychologist gives an
intelligence test. If a student is exhibiting signs of ADHD they direct an
assessment that includes behavior questionnaires to the student, parents and
teachers. Testing involves both standardized measurement tool, informal measures
and curriculum based measures to identify the probability of certain
disabilities. Students are not referred for evaluation (testing) without first
being referred to the
General Education Intervention Team
(GEIT)
Will
the proposed interventions/evaluation let him/her catch up to the rest of the
class?
We
desire for each child to progress to their potential. The
evaluation/intervention will provide useful information regarding learning
styles and academic needs of the child; however the gap between where a child is
and where other children are may remain.
What are the characteristics of a child with Attention Deficit
Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD)?
ADHD is a
developmental, biologically based disorder characterized by developmentally
inappropriate difficulties with impulse control, self regulation, activity
level, sustained attention and persistence to tasks.
Can teachers modify in the classroom without special education
services?
Yes. Pre-referral intervention and other various accommodations
can be made in the classroom without special education services. These
activities are required by law before Special Education can be considered. If
the accommodations are successful, then the student may not truly have a
disability as defined by law. Teachers may change or modify any component of
the curriculum except the content of the curriculum (i.e. may change rate,
amount of work, give extra time but may not teach a 3rd grader 1st grade
material) without special education consideration.
Will Special Education Services affect my child's chances for
going to college?
No, Special
Education services should be designed to address deficit areas and identify what
assistance the student needs. Also, if necessary, the student may be able to
receive services in college under
ADA/504.
How are specific goals correlated to the curriculum?
The IEP
team discusses the student's current level of performance and then writes goals
to address how the student's deficits deviate from the curriculum to the point
that content must be changed.
School Psychology
Student
Support Services
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