Best way to request services in Loudoun County

[Anonymous]

A friend of mine has a middle school aged child in Loudon County schools. It's pretty obvious the child has ADD but she can't afford to pay for private testing. I'm in DC and I know DC pays for testing if you request it. Does Loudoun do the same? Is this the best way to go about requesting it or should she deal with her school?

https://www.lcps.org/Page/788

[Anonymous]

Try special needs board

[Anonymous]

Pony Express

[Anonymous]

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Anonymous wrote:A friend of mine has a middle school aged child in Loudon County schools. It's pretty obvious the child has ADD but she can't afford to pay for private testing. I'm in DC and I know DC pays for testing if you request it. Does Loudoun do the same? Is this the best way to go about requesting it or should she deal with her school?

https://www.lcps.org/Page/788

I'm in FCPS. But the law is the same for the whole state.

What testing are you referring to? Testing for ADD would be done by the doctor. The schools will not diagnose. Testing for special education services would be done by the school and yes, it is free.

I'm assuming the ADD is affecting your friend's child in school in terms of grades, work completion, etc. So parent just needs to contact school and say they want their child evaluated for special education services. The committee meets and looks at initial information (teacher narratives, ADD diagnosis from doctor, parent input, etc) and decides if testing is needed. If it is, testing is done with 60 business days and then the team reconvenes to determine eligibility. Following that would be an IEP.

Often times, with ADD, a full IEP and sped services isn't needed and a 504 is sufficient. It could go that route too.

[Anonymous]

Echoing what others have suggested, I would first go to a doctor and get a diagnosis. (If appropriate of course!). The pediatrician can do this, but a neurologist would be preferable as they have the true expertise. Childrens National has some amazing neurologists and we personally love Dr. McClintock. He sees patients in Fairfax and also has an amazing nurse practitioner.

She also may want to consider a full neuropsych evaluation. This is also covered by most insurance companies, but there is typically a LONG wait to see someone who take insurance. Children's National takes insurance and I would suggest calling them and get an appointment. It might be 6 months out from now, but you can always cancel if you don't need it. 301-765-5430. The neuropsych testing is similar to what they will do at school, but is more complete.

Also, it is good to be aware that Loundoun County is NOT up to par with regard to special education. They have had SO MUCH rapid growth that they are just trying to keep their heads above water. Kids are falling through the cracks and you have to work hard to make sure your kid is not one of them. So, your friend will need to bring her A-Game to make sure her DD gets services.

Best of luck to her!

[Anonymous]

This is great information. Thank you. I'll convey it to my friend.