Joint Talk/Workshop – Dr. Boxer & Mr. Woodsmall

Mr. Woodsmall: Securing an Independent Educational Evaluation

Evaluations (also called assessments) provide valuable information regarding the nature and extent of your child’s disability as well as the impact the condition may have on his or her education.  Evaluations are conducted by highly trained therapists utilizing a combination of standardized testing, observation, parent and teacher questionnaires and past reports, if any.  The findings of the evaluation are presented in a formal report which is made available for use by the IEP team. The strengths and weaknesses identified through this process form the basis for your child’s present levels of performance, or your child’s baseline of functioning in the area of evaluation.

Evaluations are much like building blocks. They are integral in laying the foundation of a plan that will allow your child to progress in his/her educational setting.  An Independent Educational Assessment (IEE) may often make the difference between success and failure of an educational program.  This workshop explores the topic of IEEs, how to secure them and how to use them in the development of your child’s education program.

 Dr. Boxer: Interpreting and Utilizing Neuropsychological Evaluation Results 

Evaluations can be divided into two common areas: Psychoeducational and Neuropsychological. A psychoeducational evaluation typically involves assessing a student’s academic achievement, and may include testing intellectual capacity. A neuropsychological assessment delves further into other areas of cognitive functioning that may uncover latent strengths and challenges which can contribute to learning, attention, or behavioral difficulties. Dr. Boxer will discuss the difference between evaluations and how to better understand test results in relation to a child’s learning and behavioral profile.