Outside Assessments/ Scales

I have a Vanderbilt Assessment (or other scale) from my child's doctor. Now what?

Your child's doctor may request their teacher to complete a Vanderbilt Assessment Scale (or other scale) in order to gain more understanding about how your child functions in the classroom.  This is most common if you are inquiring about concerns related to ADD/ADHD. There are other assessment forms, like the Conners 3, but the Vanderbilt is the one we see most commonly at school. 

Here is what happens at school with your form:

Your child's teacher will complete the form and give it to the School Counselor. It is not allowed to be returned to the parent for privacy/security reasons. 

The School Counselor will send the parent a Records Release Form to sign, allowing the school to send a fax of the Vanderbilt (or other) to your child's doctor. The release form is only good for one year. 

 The School Counselor will fax the (Teacher) Vanderbilt Assessment Scale to your child's doctor. Both the Records Release form and Vanderbilt Assessment will be kept on file at school. 

Does this mean my child will receive an Individualized Education Program (IEP)? 

In short, not necessarily.  We have many students and families who work with their doctor to help them function better at school who do not require specialized education.  Completing a Vanderbilt Assessment Scale or receiving a medical diagnosis does not guarantee your child will receive an IEP.  There are many factors that determine what happens.  However, if you would like to inquire about the process and/or more supports for your child, it begins with the School Consultation Team and I would be happy to discuss this with you!

What is the School Consultation Team?

The School Consultation Team (SCT) is a committee of school staff and parents who meet to address concerns related to individual student learning and achievement.  The team meets to discuss ways to address needs within the general education classroom that will promote student improvement based upon the initial referral concerns.  Teachers, parents, or administrators may refer a student to the SCT.   Committee members include:  parents, teacher, administrator, Special Education teacher, School Psychologist, Reading Specialist (as needed), Speech Pathologist (as needed), and the School Counselor, who is the chair of the committee.  If sufficient student progress is not achieved as set by team goals, the team may decide to explore assessment for Special Education services.  If you would like to request a meeting for your child, please email lsilvey@bedford.k12.va.us.