I guess my question is, if these kids can pay razor-sharp attention when being assessed in these environments, then how are we supposed to assess them for ADHD? Furthermore, if they can pay attention so well while being assessed, how serious can the ADHD actually be? Obviously, SOME kids (...many kids) are NOT able to focus while being assessed for ADHD.

My sense is that we have a bad teacher fit this year. It's somewhat surprising that it's taken this long for this to occur. DD is continuing to get good grades anyway, though not as consistent or high as in the past (no big deal; she was previously an A+ student and now she is more of an A- student). I am going to ask to have the school guidance counselor/social worker do a silent observation of her in class. I hear good things about her and I would like another adult's POV.