Basics of Psychological Assessments for School-Aged Children

1. Basics of Psychological
Assessments for School-Aged
Children
By: Rebecca Lowry

2. Basics of Psychological Assessments for School-Aged
Children
Rebecca Lowry, PhD, capitalized on more than 20 years of experience in school leadership and
school psychology to lead Westmoreland County Public Schools. After completing a four-year term as
the Virginia school district’s superintendent, Dr. Rebecca Lowry resumed work as a child psychologist
for Cumberland Therapies, where she performs school-related psychological assessments.

3. Basics of Psychological Assessments for School-Aged
Children
If a child encounters obstacles to his or her learning or development that do not improve with
classroom-based interventions, a school or parent may request a psychological assessment to
ascertain if the cause is an underlying learning or cognitive disorder. Psychological assessments are
performed by qualified child psychologists and may take place at the child’s school.

4. Basics of Psychological Assessments for School-Aged
Children
The assessment may consist of several specific tests, interviews, and observations. Once the
results have been analyzed, the psychologist will share his or her findings with the child’s parents.
If there are signs that a behavioral or cognitive disorder may be at the root of the child’s academic
issues, the psychologist and school staff will develop a plan to support the student.