For families navigating the special education process, one of the most confusing parts can be understanding the difference between evaluations completed by the school and those completed by a medical provider. Both types of evaluations are important, but they serve different purposes and carry different weight when it comes to services.
At J&J Learning Services LLC (JJLS), we help parents make sense of these evaluations so they can advocate for the best supports for their child.
Purpose of a School Psychologist Evaluation
A school psychologist is responsible for conducting evaluations to determine whether a child qualifies for special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) or accommodations under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.
These evaluations typically include:
- Cognitive testing (IQ, problem-solving, memory skills)
- Academic achievement testing (reading, writing, math)
- Behavioral and social-emotional assessments
- Teacher and parent input through questionnaires and interviews
- Observations in the classroom
👉 Key Purpose: To determine whether a child meets eligibility criteria for an IEP (Individualized Education Program) or a 504 Plan and what supports are needed in the school setting.
📌 Important Note: A school psychologist’s evaluation is not a medical diagnosis. Instead, it focuses on how a child’s challenges affect their ability to learn in the classroom.
Purpose of a Physician or Medical Evaluation
A physician, psychologist, or other licensed medical provider conducts evaluations to provide a clinical diagnosis based on medical standards (DSM-5 for mental health conditions, for example).
Medical evaluations may include:
- Developmental screenings
- Medical and family history
- Standardized diagnostic tools for conditions like ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, or anxiety disorders
- Physical exams and lab work, if necessary
👉 Key Purpose: To identify whether a child meets the criteria for a medical diagnosis and to recommend treatment options (such as therapy, medication, or additional medical services).
📌 Important Note: While a physician’s diagnosis can inform a school’s evaluation, it does not automatically qualify a child for special education services. Schools must still conduct their own evaluation to determine eligibility.
Key Differences Between the Two Evaluations
| School Psychologist Evaluation | Physician/Medical Evaluation |
|---|---|
| Conducted by the school | Conducted by a licensed medical professional |
| Focuses on learning and classroom performance | Focuses on medical or clinical diagnosis |
| Determines eligibility for IEP or 504 Plan | Determines medical diagnosis (ADHD, Autism, etc.) |
| Free for families (as part of special education process) | May be covered by insurance or out-of-pocket |
| Goal: Access to school-based services | Goal: Access to medical treatment or outside supports |
How They Work Together
The best outcomes happen when schools and medical providers share information. For example:
- A physician may diagnose ADHD → The school psychologist evaluates how ADHD impacts learning → The school team determines if an IEP or 504 is needed.
- A physician may recommend occupational therapy → The school psychologist includes input from teachers → The school decides if school-based OT is required under an IEP.
At JJLS, we guide families in bridging the gap between school and medical systems, ensuring that both perspectives are used to create the most supportive plan for your child.
JJLS Final Thoughts
Both evaluations matter. A school evaluation opens the door to educational supports, while a medical evaluation provides a diagnosis and guides treatment. Parents don’t have to choose one over the other—both can work hand-in-hand to ensure your child receives the support they deserve.
At JJLS, we help families:
- Understand their child’s evaluations in plain language.
- Prepare questions to ask school teams and physicians.
- Advocate for services that reflect the whole child—both educational and medical needs.
Citations:
- U.S. Department of Education. (2017). A Guide to the Individualized Education Program (IEP). Retrieved from https://www2.ed.gov/parents/needs/speced/iepguide/index.html
- American Academy of Pediatrics. (2019). Identifying and Supporting Children with Developmental Disorders in the Medical Home. Pediatrics, 144(6).
👉 JJLS Tip: If your child has a medical diagnosis, share it with the school team. But remember—schools still must complete their own evaluation before services are provided.
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