Guides
School Evaluation or Private Evaluation?
Public schools evaluate students to decide whether they qualify for school services. A private evaluation looks at the whole child and can answer broader questions. Many families end up using both.
The short answer
A school evaluation answers one main question: does this student qualify for special education or accommodations at school? It is free to families, but it follows the school's timeline and focuses on what affects learning in the classroom. A private evaluation is paid for by the family, can be scheduled sooner, and can look at diagnoses, emotional health and life outside school as well.
What a school evaluation usually covers
- Whether a student qualifies for services under special education rules
- Learning, reading, writing and math skills
- How a concern affects classroom performance
- Recommendations the school can provide
What a private evaluation can add
- A diagnostic answer, such as ADHD, autism or a learning difference
- A look at anxiety, mood and behavior at home as well as school
- Recommendations for therapy, home routines and outside supports
- A report families can share with any school, now or later
- Documentation that may support testing accommodations
When families choose a private evaluation
Parents often come to us when they have been told to wait, when a school evaluation found no eligibility but the struggles continue, when they want a second opinion, or when they need answers before a new school year. Some families also want an evaluation for a young adult who has aged out of school services.
Using both together
A private report can be shared with your child's school, and many schools consider outside evaluations when planning supports. The school decides what it will provide, so a private report informs that decision rather than replacing it.
How a private evaluation works here
- 1.
Call or request online
Tell us your questions and your child's age.
- 2.
Interview
We gather history from you and, when helpful, from teachers.
- 3.
Testing
One or two longer appointments in person in Sugar Land.
- 4.
Feedback and report
Results explained in plain language, with written recommendations.
Questions
Is a private evaluation covered by insurance here?
No. Our testing is private pay. Call for pricing.
How soon can we be seen?
Evaluations are often scheduled within a week.
Will the school accept the report?
Schools review outside evaluations, and the report is written so it can be shared.
Talk through your options
Call or text 832-876-3232 and we will help you decide whether a private evaluation makes sense.