Opinion ID: 163383
Heading Depth: 4
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: Cognitive/communicative functioning

Text: The ALJ’s finding that Ray Lee had moderate, but less than marked limitation of functioning in the cognitive/communicative area was based on the ALJ’s determination that he “scored IQ’s within the borderline range of intellectual functioning, requiring part time special education classes.” R. Vol. II, at 17. Although “[p]lacement in a special education program is a relevant factor, [it] is not conclusive because of the variability in school districts as to their criteria for special education placement.” Briggs , 248 F.3d at 1238 n.5. The ALJ apparently determined that Ray Lee’s cognitive and communicative functioning was moderately limited because he was in special education classes only part time. But even in special education classes, “[h]is progress, even with individual attention[,] has been limited.” R. Vol. II, at 88. He was described as often being “lost” in class. Id. The ALJ interpreted as evidence of nondisability a statement in a school report that Ray Lee’s “measured achievement [was] near to above expectancy.” Id. at 132. The statement can reasonably be interpreted to mean that Ray Lee was achieving as expected for a mentally retarded child. But Ray Lee’s abilities and limitations must be compared to those of children his age who do not have impairments. 20 C.F.R. § 416.924a(b)(3). Therefore, on remand, the ALJ should consider and discuss whether this statement is evidence of nondisability. -6- The record contains standardized test results that Ms. Jefferson alleges demonstrated that Ray Lee’s functioning was two standard deviations below the mean, which qualified as marked limitations. See 20 C.F.R. § 416.926a(e)(2)(i). In assessing the severity of a child’s limitations, “[t]he use of standardized tests is the preferred method of documentation if such tests are available.” 20 C.F.R. Pt. 404, App. 1, Subpt. P, Part B, § 112.00(C). When he was a fifth-grader, Ray Lee’s standardized test scores were in the first percentile for reading, with only two scores above the ninth percentile. R. Vol. II, at 130. Accordingly, in addition to the other evidence pertaining to Ray Lee’s cognitive and communicative functioning, on remand the ALJ should evaluate whether the standardized test scores were two or more standard deviations below the mean.