If your child has been referred for a school-based therapy evaluation, you may be wondering what the process looks like and what happens next. Whether the evaluation is for speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, or another related service, the goal is to determine whether your child would benefit from support to access and participate in their educational program.
Here’s what you can expect throughout the process.
The Evaluation Starts with a Referral
A school-based evaluation typically begins after a concern has been identified by a parent, teacher, or other member of the school team. With your consent, qualified professionals will conduct assessments to better understand your child’s strengths and areas where additional support may be beneficial in the school setting.
Every State and School District Has Its Own Process
While the overall evaluation process is similar across the country, the specific timelines and procedures vary by state and even by school district. Each state has its own special education regulations that establish requirements for responding to referrals, obtaining parent consent, completing evaluations, and scheduling eligibility or IEP meetings. Your child’s school can explain the specific timeline and process that applies in your district, so you’ll know what to expect every step of the way.
Your Child Will Participate in Age-Appropriate Activities
Evaluations are designed to be engaging and comfortable for students. Depending on the type of evaluation, the therapist may observe your child in the classroom, work with them individually, or use games, activities, and standardized assessments to evaluate skills.
The therapist is looking at how your child functions in the educational environment, including skills that support learning, participation, and independence at school.
More Than Just Testing
A school-based evaluation includes more than formal assessments. The therapist may also:
- Observe your child in the classroom or other school settings.
- Speak with teachers and other members of the educational team.
- Review academic performance and classroom participation.
- Consider information shared by parents or caregivers.
Looking at the whole child helps the team understand how your child’s skills impact their success throughout the school day.
You’ll Review the Results Together
Once the evaluation is complete, the school team will meet with you to discuss the findings. They’ll explain the results, answer your questions, and determine whether your child qualifies for services under special education guidelines. If therapy is recommended, the team will discuss goals and how services can help support your child’s educational needs.
You’re an Important Part of the Team
Parents and caregivers provide valuable insight into their child’s strengths, interests, and daily experiences. Your input helps create a more complete picture of your child’s needs and plays an important role in the evaluation and planning process.
Supporting Student Success
A school-based therapy evaluation isn’t about finding what’s “wrong” with a child, it’s about identifying opportunities to help them thrive in the classroom. By working together, families, educators, and therapists can develop individualized supports that help students participate more fully in their education and build the skills they need for long-term success.
At Jump Ahead Pediatrics, we believe collaboration is the foundation of effective school-based services. Our therapists work alongside school teams and families to provide individualized support that helps students gain confidence, participate in their learning, and reach their full potential.