Adapt: to make suitable to requirements or conditions; adjust or modify fittingly www.dictionary.com

A few weeks into the semester and your class rosters have likely settled down to somewhat of a consistent list. You are getting a feel for how to interact most effectively with the new faces in your classroom, and you are making mental notes on things that work, and things that don’t. Amidst the chaos of the back to school season, you may have received a confidential note from your counseling or special education department letting you know that one or more of your students have an IEP (Individualized Education Plan) or a 504 plan (named from section 504 of the Americans with Disabilities Act).  You’re busy. Your desk is piling up. What can you do to meet the needs of these students? What can you do to adapt? I sat down with a special education teacher who shared some important insight. Some thoughts to ponder:

• It is required by federal law that we give students the opportunity to be in the LRE (least restrictive environment). The chance to be a student in your class is a right, not a privilege.
• Know the difference: An IEP is an individualized plan based on a student’s qualification for special education. A 504 plan is a description of ways to accommodate/modify assignments for students with learning disabilities.
• Start out by connecting with your student’s case manager to establish a form of communication. Remember they are busy just like you, so don’t wait for them to contact you. When you get done reading this blog, shoot them an email or leave a voice message. They’ll help you with strategies to make your job easier!
• Take a moment to step back and look at the bigger picture. What are the student’s goals? What is the student’s ability? Helping the student meet his or her goals is more important than sticking to your lesson plan word-for-word, so don’t forget to stop and take a look at where you (and your students) are headed.
• Most importantly – take the time to ask for help as you seek to serve your students with special needs. You aren’t expected to be an expert in this area, but luckily, there are folks on your campus who are!