Supports, Modifications, and Accommodations for Students

September 2010 For many students with disabilities—and for many without—the key to success in the classroom lies in having appropriate adaptations, accommodations, and modifications made to the instruction and other classroom activities. Some adaptations are as simple as moving a distractible student to the front of the class or away from the pencil sharpener or the window. Other modifications may involve changing the way that material is … [Read more...]

Supplementary Aids and Services

Updated March 2013 This info in Spanish | Esta información en español The IEP must contain a statement of the special education and related services and supplementary aids and services to be provided to the child, or on behalf of the child. We've split up the discussion of each of these important elements, because there is so much to say about each. This article focuses on supplementary aids and services. IDEA's exact words The … [Read more...]

Considering LRE in Placement Decisions

September 2010About LRE in Spanish | Sobre LRE en españolLeast restrictive environment, or LRE as it is more commonly called, is one of several vital components in the development of a child’s IEP and plays a critical role, influencing where a child spends his or her time at school, how services are provided, and the relationships the child develops within the school and community. Indeed, LRE is a foundational element in building an appropriate … [Read more...]

Key Terms to Know in Special Education

October 2010 En español | In SpanishSpecial education is full of terms that people constantly use in writing and in conversation, and it's important to know what those terms mean. NICHCY is pleased to provide this handy reference to special education terminology, and hopes it helps our readers quickly connect with the meaning of pivotal words and phrases in the field.Quick-Jump Index to the TermsPoint of Reference: IDEAChild with a disabilityFAPE … [Read more...]

Module 13: Content of the IEP

by Theresa Rebhorn and Lisa Küpper NICHCY | National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities December 2007 **Este módulo está disponible en español: El Contenido del IEP Module 13 looks in detail at the information that must be included in the IEP of every child with a disability receiving special education and related services under IDEA. This is critical knowledge for families and school personnel to have! The module  is available … [Read more...]

Module 15: LRE Decision Making

April 2008 English only slideshow Handouts for Participants in English and in Spanish Authors: Theresa Rebhorn NICHCY | National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities and Anne Smith Office of Special Education Programs U.S. Department of Education Module 15 pivots on a point of enormous importance in the educations of children with disabilities under IDEA: They are to be educated in the least restrictive environment (LRE), learning … [Read more...]

GEMSS: Genetic resources for educators

Approximately 1 in every 20 children nationwide has a genetic or metabolic condition like Down syndrome, fragile X syndrome, sickle cell disease, or Phenylketonuria (PKU). The Genetics Education Materials for School Success (GEMSS) website provides educators, other school personnel, and parents with a “one-stop shop” of useful tools and tips for support of students with genetic conditions throughout the school day. Each condition and its symptoms … [Read more...]