During the first weeks of school, a teacher considers possible developmental delays in a child. Which action would require parental permission beforehand?

• A. Administering to the child's class a screening assessment that covers multiple domains
• B. Modifying classroom activities and instruction to address the child's learning needs
• C. Asking a special education teacher to conduct an informal observation of the child
• D. Asking the school psychologist to collect diagnostic information on the child

Answer: (D)

Before a child can be formally evaluated for possible delays to determine eligibility for services, the school must obtain informed written consent from the parent. Collecting diagnostic information involves in-depth testing and analysis that can influence decisions about support or placement, so parents need to understand and authorize what will be done and how the results will be used. That’s why having the school psychologist gather diagnostic information requires parental permission beforehand. In contrast, a screening that covers multiple domains, modifying instruction, or informal observations are generally part of standard educational practices and don’t require the same level of formal, prior written consent in most cases, though schools still follow policies and keep families informed.