Own the Facts – Master That Evaluation Report.

If you’ve ever seen a standard score of 80 and assumed it meant 80%- you are in good company. Many families make that assumption because no one takes the time to explain what those numbers actually mean. A score of 80 doesn’t indicate passing. It places your child in the 9th percentile– far below the skill level expected for his age.

Understand the tests as quantititative data.

Those “average,” “low-average,” and “below-average” labels aren’t just general descriptors. They are tied to specific statistical ranges and plugged into complex frameworks like Cross-Battery assessments. And those t-scores? They don’t mean what most people think they do. You are suddenly expected to decode technical language, assess statistical results, and make high-impact decisions – all before finishing a meeting that determines your child’s future.

You shouldn’t have to go alone. You need a skilled translator and a strategic partner.

Early on, you likely trusted the team to lead the process. But now, the red flags are adding up. Why does a 60-page evaluation lack meaningful recommendations? Why is the football coach the only General Education representative in your IEP Meeting? Why does the report say your child is doing fine, while their grades – and your gut- say otherwise?

Your child says services aren’t happening. The teachers’ observations report that everything is great. The data doesn’t add up, or match reality.

It’s not just confusing – it’s isolating. But you are not wrong to ask questions. You are seeing what others are missing.

Here’s what come’s next: You get clear on the data. You gain a partner who can interpret the report, translate the jargon, see the omissions and help you build a plan to correct course – grounded in facts – not assumptions.

Don’t Say Yes until you comprehend the tests 

Standard scores, t-scores… it’s a lot to take in. But here’s the truth: if the numbers don’t make sense to you, how can you confidently agree to a plan that’s based on them?

And that’s often just the beginning.

If your input, as a parent, is missing from the report – or if your concerns weren’t fully explored-you’re right to feel frustrated. So what can you do now? You can speak up. You can ask for clarity. And yes you can request corrections.

Comprehensive assessments are complete evaluations and the foundation of an appropriate educational program. But “comprehensive” doesn’t mean complete unless your voice and your child’s full profile are part of it.

#2: That’s why I bring in more than one opinion. When I review evaluations, I consult with licensed psychologists, licensed dyslexia therapists, speech language pathologists and board certified behavior analysts.

Sometimes, you need a second opinion