Home > School and Learning > Learning Differences > Special Education > IEPs > The IEP and Test Accommodations
|

Expert Iconexpert advice MORE

Please read our General and Medical Disclaimers

The IEP and Test Accommodations

LD and ADD/ADHD Expert Advice from Jerome J. Schultz, Ph.D.

Q: My tenth-grade son has learning difficulties as well as ADD. He's just passing. I have two tutors for him at home. When I ask the teachers for a study guide for the exams so my son can sift through the materials more easily and learn them, I can't get their cooperation. Now he has to pass the Global Studies Regent. It's mandatory, yet I can't find anyone to help him with it in school or at home. I literally have to teach my son the material, which I resent. Is there any way to demand legally, through the IEP, study guides or test modifications?

A: If your son is on an IEP, you should ask that the plan be amended to include these supports, which sound reasonable, given what you say. If they are in the IEP, they must be provided. I'm not positive about New York special education laws, but in most states, test modifications that are in the IEP must be provided for a child with special needs who takes a "high stakes" test, such as the Regent's exam.

If the teachers do not cooperate, ask the building principal or the director of special education to convene a meeting to discuss your son's performance and needs, your requests, and the teachers' obligation to provide reasonable accommodations. It sounds like you are doing your fair share by providing tutors at home; you'd think the school would provide them with the materials they need to help your son succeed. If your request does not bring results, you may want to consult an attorney who is familiar with the rights of students with disabilities, or you can contact the New York Office of Civil Rights for advice and assistance.

More on: Expert Advice

Jerome (Jerry) Schultz is the founding clinical director of the Learning Lab @ Lesley University, a program that provides assessment, tutoring, and case management services for children with learning challenges. Schultz holds a Ph.D. from Boston College, and has completed postdoctoral fellowships in both clinical psychology and pediatric neuropsychology.


you might also like:

from our community:

Please note: This "Expert Advice" area of FamilyEducation.com should be used for general information purposes only. Advice given here is not intended to provide a basis for action in particular circumstances without consideration by a competent professional. Before using this Expert Advice area, please review our General and Medical Disclaimers.

what’s hot

  1. Top 10 End-of-the-Year Gifts for Teachers
  2. 10 Gender-Predicting Old Wives' Tales
  3. Top 12 Fundraising Ideas
  4. VIEW ALL

stay connected

Sign up for our free email newsletters and receive the latest advice and information on all things parenting.

Enter your email address to sign up or manage your account.

Facebook icon Twitter icon Follow Us on Pinterest

editor’s picks

highlights

8 Printable Thank-You Cards for Teachers
As the end of the school year approaches, it's nice to thank your favorite educators for all their hard work. Print any of these free printable teacher appreciation cards to show your gratitude in a cute and simple way.

Great Gift Ideas for Dad's First Father's Day
Every dad's first Father's Day is a special one. Honor Daddy's important new role with a fun and heartfelt gift from you and your baby.

Explore Funbrain Jr. with Your Preschooler
Looking for fun online games, adorable stories, and cool printables for preschoolers and kindergartners? Check out the new Funbrain Jr., a fun place to learn for children ages 2 to 6.

11 Succulent Vegetarian Recipes for the Grill
Barbecue season isn't just for meat-lovers! These vegetarian recipes for the grill are a healthy and delicious alternative to typical barbecue fare.