Steps Involved in an Evaluation
What are the steps involved in the evaluation process?
1. Initial Contact with the Stern Center
When a parent/guardian or adult student calls the Stern Center, our Diagnostics Program Assistant gathers basic information regarding the student and areas of concern, explains the evaluation process, and schedules an appointment or evaluation. This person will also discuss options for assistance in the funding for this service. If there are specific questions regarding the evaluation, a diagnostician may follow up by phone.
2. Informational Questionnaires
To help in the diagnostice process, we ask that parents or adult students complete informational questionnaires. For children, we also suggest that their teachers complete questionnaires.
3. Pre-Evaluation Conference
On the day of the scheduled evaluation, the parents or adult student meet with the diagnostician to review relevant background information and clarify areas of concern. The diagnostician may then also contact school personnel to obtain relevant information regarding the individual's current school performance.
4. Evaluation
Because each student has special, individual needs and we provide a comprehensive assessment, we typically request that an entire day be set aside for testing. Evaluations are usually completed in five to six hours (excluding breaks for lunch); however, in a few cases, completion of an evaluation may require less time or may even require a follow-up appointment. In complex cases, a Stern Center evauation team may review test results. Evaluations involve assessment in one or more areas.
5. Post-Evaluation Conference
Following the testing, the student and/or the student's parents meet with the diagnostician to discuss preliminary findings from the diagnostic process. Recommendations for appropriate interventions may be reviewed.
6. Written Report
The evaluation includes a comprehensive written report to the parents or adult student detailing test results and recommendations. This report is completed within approximately four to six weeks from the date of the evaulation depending on the complexity of the case. The diagnostician is available to consult with school personnel regarding the implementation of recommendations.
Contact us at 802-878-2332 to speak with our Evaluations Intake Scheduler. You may also use our online form to contact the evaluation department.