How the school can conclude from a DROP in scores that there is no LD going on
LD's are defined as a specific deficit relative to one's other abilities. So someone who tests wicked smart but can barely read will be diagnosed with dyslexia. Someone who is globally delayed will not receive that specific diagnosis. It sounds like the school is trying to use the lower scores to argue that there is no specific LD.
"For some students, the very factors that lead to their performing below potential in the classroom can also lead to their performing below potential on standardised identification measures, such as IQ tests." "At worst a student with low academic self-efficacy will choose not to try, or to put in minimal effort, for fear of failing."
Even further, it may be exactly the fact that the testing took place in a school setting that led to the lower scores, if your child perceives that the school considers her to be a problem kid. Google "stereotype threat" to learn more.
