🧠 Academic & Learning Testing: When to Start, What Schools Can (and Can’t) Do, and How It Helps

Michelle Wickizer
Jul 17
3 min read

As the 2025/2026 school year school year looms, it’s common for parents and teachers to notice signs that a student may be struggling to keep up—or, in some cases, isn’t being challenged enough. Maybe a child avoids reading. Maybe they breeze through math homework but can’t stay focused in class. Or maybe they’re bright and articulate, but test scores don’t reflect their potential.

These are often the first signs that academic or learning testing could help—but when is the right time to initiate it, and what role do schools play?

📍 When Should You Consider Academic or Learning Testing?

Testing is most helpful when you notice persistent patterns that go beyond typical ups and downs. Some signs to watch for:

Difficulty mastering reading, writing, or math skills despite support
Trouble with focus, following directions, or organizing work
Significant gaps between a child’s potential and their classroom performance
Behavioral issues that may be masking learning frustration
Strong abilities in some areas, but clear struggles in others (possible twice-exceptionality)

If you’re unsure whether to pursue testing, trust your gut—and the child’s behavior. Kids rarely “grow out of” learning differences. Early intervention leads to better outcomes.

🏫 What Can Schools Do — and Where Are the Limits?

Public schools in the U.S. are legally required to evaluate students suspected of having disabilities that may affect their education, under laws like IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) and Section 504.

✅ What schools can do:

Provide Psychoeducational Evaluations at no cost (if warranted)
Assess for learning disabilities, ADHD, and other challenges that impact academic access
Use testing to determine eligibility for services like IEPs or 504 Plans

🚫 Limitations of school-based evaluations:

Schools may delay testing until a student has received “response to intervention” (RTI) support for several weeks or months
Evaluations often focus only on educational impact, not broader diagnoses (like anxiety, dyslexia, or ADHD unless it significantly affects schoolwork)
Assessments may be less comprehensive than private evaluations
Long waitlists or limited resources can delay support

Many families find that private psychoeducational or neuropsychological testing provides deeper insights and faster turnaround—but it comes at a cost.

💡 How Testing Helps: Beyond the Label

Whether through the school or privately, a good evaluation can be life-changing. Here’s how:

Identifies specific learning strengths and weaknesses, guiding tailored support
Helps qualify students for accommodations like extended time, assistive tech, or specialized instruction
Provides a clearer picture of how a child learns, improving self-awareness and confidence
Can lead to formal diagnoses that inform therapy, medication, or other interventions
Helps teachers and parents collaborate more effectively with a shared understanding of the child’s needs

📝 Bottom Line: Testing Is a Tool, Not a Judgment

Initiating academic testing isn’t about finding flaws—it’s about understanding a child’s brain better, and giving them the best chance to thrive. Whether done through the school or privately, testing can offer clarity, direction, and access to support that might otherwise be out of reach.

Next Steps

Concerned about your child’s learning? Start by talking with their teacher or school counselor. You can also submit a written request to begin the evaluation process.
Want a broader assessment? Licensed psychologists and neuropsychologists can offer private testing tailored to your concerns. Review BPS' contact page to inquire about academic and learning testing for your child.