Overview of Services

Assessment Services
Diagnostic Center assessments are designed to address the individual needs of the student and thus, each and every student's assessment is different. Some children may require one or two days to complete their assessment, while others require up to four days. Some students need the services of only one specialist, while other children require additional staff expertise in order to complete their assessment.

The questions posed by the referring school district, coupled with the student’s profile, guide the assessment. During the admissions process, the Admission and Review Committee will consult with the school district and then determine whether the student will be accepted, and if so, what type of assessment model would be most appropriate. Individual student assessments are conducted either at the Diagnostic Center (center based), at the school site (field based), or in a combination of both. Assessment results typically include diagnosis, levels of functioning in educationally-related areas, and recommendations for educational programming.

It is the responsibility of the IEP Team to implement the Diagnostic Center’s recommendations as they deem appropriate. The Diagnostic Center does not evaluate programs or teachers, or make specific placement recommendations. Nor does the Diagnostic Center provide specific recommendations on the length, frequency, intensity, or staffing of ancillary services.

There is no charge for services; however, requests for services must be generated by the local school district.

Professional Development Services
The Diagnostic Centers are recognized as leaders in professional development. Presenters are practitioners who offer up-to-date research-based information and strategies.

The Diagnostic Center offers professional development in several formats including regional one-day workshops, consultation, and comprehensive professional development projects. Professional development project topics are in Literacy, Autism, and Early Childhood Special Education. Consultation services cover a variety of topics, and can be customized to meet the needs of the educational agency.

ABOUT THE DIAGNOSTIC CENTER, SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA