Beyond the Score

jacksonsadvocacy
1 day ago
3 min read

Why testing fails neurodivergent students

As a neurodivergent mom raising three neurodivergent kids, I’ve seen how standardized tests create barriers instead of opportunities. These tests don’t measure creativity, perseverance, or intelligence — they measure how well a student can fit into a rigid system under stressful conditions.

I know this because I lived it. I studied for hours every day for both the LSAT and the GRE, pouring in hard work, effort, and drive for admission to both law school and graduate school. When my scores came back low, it felt like a punch in the gut. My Verbal score placed me in only the 10th–15th percentile, and my Quantitative score around the 40th–50th percentile. I couldn’t believe those numbers were supposed to represent my dedication and ability.

I applied to several universities anyway, but rejection letters arrived quickly. It felt like my scores alone had shut the door — as if my essay, my experiences, and my determination were never even read. For a moment, I believed the test. I thought I wasn’t enough.

But the test was wrong. I went on to earn my Master’s degree in political science from a Division I university with a 3.95 GPA while working full-time, earned a scholarship, and was accepted into a paid internship with the United States Senate. My real-life achievements proved what my scores could not: effort, resilience, and intelligence can’t be measured in percentiles.

My Children Face the Same Story

Now, I see the same struggle with my kids. They earn straight A’s in advanced curriculum, yet their test scores tell a very different story — one that does not reflect who they are. That’s why when they walk into a testing room, I remind them:

“This test does not determine if you’re smart. It is just a test. That’s all.”

When the results come back, I don’t show them the numbers. We move on because a score should never define their worth.

Why Testing is the Wrong Measure

It narrows success. Tests reward speed and memorization, not depth of thought, problem-solving, or creativity.
It penalizes difference. Neurodivergent students often need more time, different formats, or sensory regulation. Tests don’t account for this.
It creates false labels. A student can thrive in advanced coursework and still receive a low score that makes them look “behind.”
It blocks opportunity. Scholarships, advanced placement, and even admission decisions are often tied to numbers that don’t reflect reality.

What To Do If Testing Is Required

While I strongly believe testing should be removed as a metric altogether, here are steps parents can take when it’s unavoidable:

1. Secure Accommodations Through an IEP or 504 Plan

Elementary: Extended time, quiet spaces, breaks, or read-aloud supports can all be included.
High School: For graduation tests, SAT/ACT, and AP exams, accommodations must be written into the plan well in advance.

2. Document What Works for Your Child

Show the connection between supports and success. Example: “With extended time, my child consistently earns A’s on classroom exams.”

3. Apply Early for National Exams

Approval for accommodations on SAT/ACT or AP tests takes months. Start the process early with your school counselor.

4. Reframe the Message for Your Child

Remind them often: “This test does not measure your intelligence. It’s just one task, not your future.”

4 Things to Tell Your Child Before a Test

“This test does not determine if you’re smart.”
“Your grades, effort, and character show the real picture of who you are.”
“These numbers don’t define your future.”
“Do your best, then let it go — we move on together.”

Final Thoughts

My own story — hours of studying, low test scores, discouragement, and rejection — proves that standardized testing doesn’t capture ability. My children’s story — straight A’s in advanced curriculum, with test scores that don’t match — proves it again.

Testing prevents some of the greatest visual and creative voices from being heard.

Testing should never be a metric of worth or opportunity. Until the system changes, our job as parents and advocates is to secure every possible support and remind our kids daily that they are more than a number.

✨ At Jackson’s Advocacy, I help families navigate IEPs, 504 plans, and accommodations so that testing is never the final word on a child’s future