When a mother requests that test results not be shared with the father, what is the best initial step for the school psychologist?

The best initial step is to consult with the mother about sharing educational records. This approach demonstrates respect for the mother's wishes while also adhering to legal and ethical guidelines surrounding parental rights and educational records.

Engaging in a conversation with the mother allows the school psychologist to understand her concerns and the context behind her request. It's essential to clarify the importance of communication between parents regarding their child's educational needs and to ensure that any action taken aligns with both the law and the school's policies. This initial step lays the groundwork for discussing potential next steps, including considering the father's rights and involvement as well as the implications of the request on the child's educational progress.

Involving the administration or the father prematurely, or ignoring the request entirely, would not address the mother's concerns adequately and could lead to potential conflicts or misunderstandings regarding parental rights and responsibilities. Therefore, the best approach is to start with a discussion with the mother.