What is a school observation?

A school observation involves an outside expert observing the child through their normal school day. An observation can last anywhere from 2 to 4 hours. The observer chooses what classes, activities and settings to observe based on parents' concerns. The observer can observe academic instruction in specific subjects, group and individual therapies, transitions, lunch, recess, etc.

 

When is a school observation needed?

An observation can be the best tool to figure out why the child is struggling and identify solutions.  It is used to see if the IEP is actually being implemented, find out how the child is doing in the classroom, and to find out if child's classroom/placement is the right fit. 

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​What can an observation tell us?

Some of the questions that can be answered by an observation are: Is the classroom environment appropriate for the child? Does the child have what they need, i.e. visuals, sensory items, AAC device, etc.? Is the child getting all their accommodations? How the child is actually being taught? Is the child engaged in learning, or disengaged and struggling to pay attention? Are therapists able to engage the child? What do transitions look like? Is the child connecting to peers or is isolated? What are possible explanations and solutions to behavioral challenges?

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While an IEP can look great, a lot of times what really happens in the classroom is not exactly what is written in the IEP. And often, parents feel that they have no idea what actually happens in the classroom. An observation allows us to find out information we can't get otherwise. For parents wanting an out-of-district placement, an observation is a necessary step. 

 

What happens after the observation?

Following the observation, a detailed report with recommendations is provided. Once the report is submitted to the school, a team meeting is convened to discuss the report. An observer will present the report, explain the recommendations, and answer team's questions. Changes to an IEP can be made. Changes can include additional accommodations, methodologies, goals/objectives, and services.  

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What is the cost of the observation?

The cost of the observation is $1,650. This includes up to 2 hours of travel time, paperwork review, a 2-hour observation, and a report  that includes a detailed description of what was observed and provides detailed recommendations.

• For travel time over 2 hours a $250 hourly fee is applied in 15-minute increments

• For each additional hour of observation time if desired by parents, a $250 hourly fee is applied.  

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