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Emotional Disability: Past and Present
Advancements in identifying and supporting students with Emotional Disabilities have evolved over time. Before the 20th century, harsh treatment prevailed, but improvements began with the efforts of reformer Dorothea Dix. The term ’emotionally or behaviorally disturbed’ was introduced in the early 1900s, and subsequent legislative actions led to protections and services for these students. Ongoing…
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Managing Test Anxiety
If you or someone you know experiences test anxiety, looming spring assessments (STAAR, EOC exams, or college boards, for example) may be causing stress. These tests can be valuable for data collection and determining personal proficiency in a variety of subject areas. However, the stress of performing can also cause a distressing and unwanted experience…
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Selecting an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) Provider
When you disagree with an evaluation completed by your local school district, you have the right to request an independent educational evaluation (IEE). Parents are entitled to one IEE at the school’s expense each time the district conducts an evaluation if the parent disagrees. When selecting the outside evaluator, it is important to consider whether…
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Should Parents Tell Their Kids About Their Disability?
Often, I have parents ask whether or not they should tell their child about their recently diagnosed disability. Whether or not to share with your child their identified challenges is an important question. Personally, I feel that it is important to inform your child about both their strengths and their identified challenges. Given this information,…
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