In-School Observation Services in Montgomery County, MD
Professional Classroom Observations by Licensed Psychologists to Support Diagnostic Clarity and Educational Planning
At Washington Insight Solutions in Rockville, Maryland, we offer in-school observation services for students in public and private schools throughout Montgomery County. These observations provide valuable insight into how a student functions in their everyday academic environment. Whether a student is struggling with attention, behavior, peer interactions, or transitions between activities, a structured school-based observation can be a powerful tool in understanding their needs and guiding next steps for support.
What Is An In-School Observation?
An in-school observation is a formal, structured visit conducted by a licensed psychologist to observe a student in their classroom or other school settings. Unlike standardized testing, which occurs in a clinical environment, an in-school observation allows us to see the student in real time—during class instruction, group work, transitions, lunch, or recess. We look for patterns in behavior, attention, social interaction, emotional regulation, and classroom engagement. These observations help clarify how symptoms may present in the school setting and often serve as an essential complement to psychological evaluations or educational planning.
Who Can Benefit from an In-School Observation
This service is ideal for students who are being assessed for ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, or behavioral challenges; students who demonstrate significant differences in behavior between home and school; students undergoing psychoeducational or psychological evaluations who need additional context; children being considered for IEP or 504 Plan eligibility; or students in need of classroom strategies or interventions but without a clear diagnosis. Observations are available only within Montgomery County to ensure close collaboration with local schools and timely scheduling.
Who Should Consider This Type of Evaluation?
This evaluation is appropriate for students who have a current or suspected diagnosis of ADHD, dyslexia, or another learning disability; currently receive extended time or accommodations through a 504 Plan or IEP; have always needed more time on exams or struggle with written expression, attention, or test anxiety; attend a private school or homeschool setting and need outside documentation; or are planning to apply for accommodations on the SAT, ACT, PSAT, AP exams, or other college admissions tests. We also assist students preparing for future accommodations on graduate exams such as the GRE, MCAT, or LSAT.
Our Step-by-Step Evaluation Process
Step 1: Parent and School Coordination
We begin by obtaining parental consent and working directly with the school to coordinate a time for the observation. We identify the most appropriate setting and time of day to capture meaningful behavior.
Step 2: On-Site Observation
Our licensed psychologist visits the school and observes the student over a 60 to 90-minute window. This may include classroom time, group activities, transitions, or unstructured periods such as lunch or recess.
Step 3: Behavioral and Environmental Documentation
During the observation, we collect detailed notes about the student’s behavior, attention span, communication, peer interaction, response to instruction, and environmental triggers or supports.
Step 4: Summary and Optional Feedback Sessions
Following the observation, we prepare a written summary outlining the findings and recommendations. An optional feedback meeting is available to review the results and discuss the next steps for evaluation, intervention, or accommodation planning.
What Accommodations Can Be Requested?
In-School observations can add significant value to an existing evaluation or serve as a standalone tool for understanding a child’s needs. They offer practical insight into how symptoms like inattention, hyperactivity, anxiety, or social delays affect daily functioning in a real-world academic environment. These insights are particularly helpful when preparing for IEP or 504 Plan meetings, identifying eligibility for services, or tailoring interventions to better support the student. Our team ensures that each observation report is clear, professional, and usable within the context of school planning.
Do I need to complete a full evaluation first?
No. Observations can be scheduled as part of a full evaluation or as an independent service.
Will you share results with the school?
Only with your written consent. We follow all confidentiality guidelines and will only communicate with the school when permitted.
Can schools request the observation?
Yes. We often partner with schools who recommend observations to support student needs. However, we require parental approval in all cases.
Is the observation disruptive to my child's school day?
No. Observations are conducted discreetly, and most students are unaware they are being observed.
Is this service available outside Montgomery County?
No. Due to the on-site nature of this service, in-school observations are only available within Montgomery County, Maryland.
Schedule an In-School Observation in Montgomery County
If your child is struggling in school and you need more insight into their classroom behavior, focus, or peer interactions, an in-school observation may be the next best step. Contact Washington Insight Solutions to learn more or schedule a consultation.
We proudly serve families and schools throughout Rockville, Bethesda, Gaithersburg, Silver Spring, and all of Montgomery County, MD.