Development Desk
Development Desk—a space where parenting meets psychology, advocacy meets action, and insight replaces the noise. I’m Ana, a school psychologist and mom, sharing what I’ve learned from years inside the system and alongside families. Together, we’ll unpack the why behind the behavior, decode the school processes, and build something strong—one conversation at a time.
From insight to action. From chaos to clarity. This is Development Desk.
Disclaimer: The information shared on Development Desk is for educational and informational purposes only. While I am a licensed school psychologist, this podcast does not constitute psychological services, legal advice, or a therapeutic relationship. The views expressed are my own and do not reflect the policies or positions of any school district or employer. This content is not a substitute for professional consultation with a qualified provider in your state. Always seek appropriate support when making decisions related to your child’s education, health, or legal rights.
Development Desk
Decoding SLD: Identifying Learning Disabilities
In this episode of Brainwaves and Backpacks, we take a deep dive into the complex process of identifying Specific Learning Disabilities (SLD) in schools. We break down how school teams analyze data to determine whether a student truly has a learning disability and why getting it right matters. Misidentification can have lasting consequences, from unnecessary special education placement to lowered expectations and lost opportunities. We discuss the nuances of evaluation, the importance of looking at all data points (not just test scores), and how parents and educators can work together to ensure students receive the right support. Whether you’re a parent navigating the special education process or a professional involved in student evaluations, this episode provides valuable insights into making data-driven, student-centered decisions.
Tune in for an important conversation on why accuracy in SLD identification is critical and how we can prevent both over- and under-identification in our schools
