((((Muffy)))))),

Yes, unfortunately the system is not as it should be. I'm so sorry that it negatively impacted you and your child.

A learning disability diagnosis is determined by testing a student for his/her predicted achievement and his/her actual achievement. When there is a large enough discrepancy between the two scores (in my state, 20 points or greater) or between two subsets in each test, a child can be labeled with a learning disability . Interestingly, I often see that students with AD/HD often score poorly in Written Expression and Mathematical Calculation, IMO due to the specific traits of AD/HD. However, oftentimes the student is given an LD label because they have the intelligence but are not meeting their expected achievement. I think the diagnosis is important because the techniques for remediation are different. You sound like a wonderful person, BTW If you ever need IEP help, feel free to PM me! Take care.