🧠 Is Your Child Struggling in School? Why a Psychoeducational Evaluation Could Be the Key to a 504 Plan

By Leonard Educational Evaluations, LLC. (05/20/2025)

As a parent, you know your child best. You see their strengths, their struggles, and their potential. But what happens when your child’s challenges in school start to interfere with their ability to succeed—when frustration becomes the norm, homework takes hours, or anxiety spirals around reading, writing, or testing? If you find yourself in this position, a psychoeducational evaluation might be the key to unlocking the support your child needs—particularly if you’re considering a 504 Plan.

If you need assistance, contact Leonard Educational Evaluations at 267-702-6328, www.LeonardEvaluation.com or Info@LeonardEvaluations.com.  Our expert psychologists and educational specialists have been conducting psychoeducational evaluations for pre-law and college students for nearly 20 years!

📘 What Is a 504 Plan—and Who Qualifies?

A 504 Plan, named after Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, provides accommodations to students with disabilities that interfere with learning but who may not qualify for special education services under an IEP. These accommodations level the playing field with supports like:

• Extended time on tests
• Preferential seating
• Reduced homework
• Access to assistive technology

To qualify, a student must have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities—like learning, concentrating, or reading. But here’s the key: documentation is required to access these services.

🧾 What Is a Psychoeducational Evaluation?

A psychoeducational evaluation is a comprehensive look at your child’s learning profile. It typically includes:

• 🧠 IQ Testing (e.g., WISC-V)
• 📚 Academic Testing (e.g., WIAT-4, Woodcock-Johnson)
• 😟 Behavioral & Emotional Assessments
• 📝 Parent and Teacher Input

The result? A clear, data-driven understanding of your child’s strengths and challenges—and a roadmap for support.

💡 Why Parents Should Take the First Step

Even if the school hasn’t raised concerns, you can advocate for your child. Here’s why a private evaluation is a powerful tool:

⏳ 1. Early Identification Prevents Bigger Problems Later

Don’t wait for your child to “fail” before seeking help. Early identification can prevent academic struggles from escalating into anxiety, low self-esteem, or school avoidance.

🔍 2. You Gain Objective, Professional Insight

An evaluation helps decode confusing behavior or performance gaps—providing clarity around challenges like dyslexia, ADHD, or executive dysfunction.

🧾 3. You Strengthen Your Case for a 504 Plan

A detailed report gives schools the documentation they need to justify accommodations. It’s your strongest advocacy tool.

🧭 4. You Empower Yourself With a Roadmap

With specific, actionable recommendations, you’ll be able to request the supports your child truly needs—and help educators understand how best to help.

🚩 Red Flags That an Evaluation Might Be Needed

Wondering whether your child might benefit from a 504 Plan and an evaluation? Look out for these signs:

• Persistent academic struggles despite effort
• Teacher reports of attention, behavior, or social issues
• Homework takes excessively long
• Frequent meltdowns about school
• A history of learning or emotional concerns in the family

🏁 How to Get Started

• 
  🔐 Go Private for Depth and Speed: A private evaluation gives you more detailed results—often faster.
• 🏫 Start with the School: You can formally request a 504 evaluation, though the process may be slow or limited in scope.
• 🛡 Know Your Rights: If your evaluation reveals a disability that limits learning, the school must consider those findings under Section 504.

❤️ Final Thoughts: Advocacy Starts With Understanding

Getting a psychoeducational evaluation isn’t about finding what’s “wrong” with your child. It’s about uncovering what they need. It’s about giving them tools to succeed—academically, socially, and emotionally.If your instincts are nudging you to explore support, trust them. A single evaluation can open the door to lifelong confidence, achievement, and resilience.

If you need assistance, contact Leonard Educational Evaluations at 267-702-6328, www.LeonardEvaluation.com or Info@LeonardEvaluations.com.  Our expert psychologists and educational specialists have been conducting psychoeducational evaluations for pre-law and college students for nearly 20 years!