504 Plan:
A document that identifies modifications and accommodations that will be provided in a student’s academic environment
Accommodations:
Changes that helps a student overcome or work around a disability. The student is expected to know the same material and answer the same questions as fully as the other students, but the format will be different. Examples of accommodations include extended time, testing over several days, testing in a separate environment with reduced distractions, working one-on-one with the teacher, providing audio taped books, and answering orally.
Advocate:
A representative that informs parents of the educational rights and assists families in negotiating and resolving disputes with the school district. Advocates are not attorneys.
Content Vocabulary:
The technical words associated with a specific area, such as science, history, or literature. Often these words have multiple meaning leading to confusion (i.e., square, coordinate, degree).
IEP:
An Individualized Education Plan is a legal document that is developed by a team (which may include parents, students, teachers, therapists, counselors, support staff, and other school personnel) that identifies the goals, objectives, and accommodations that make up the student’s specialized educational program.
Modification:
A change in what is being taught to or expected from the student. Making an assignment easier so the student is not doing the same level of work as other students is an example of a modification.
Transition:
A coordinated set of activities that promote movement from high school to post-secondary education, vocational training, employment, adult services, independent living and community participation. They must be based on the individual student's needs, taking into account his or her preferences and interests. Transition services must include instruction, community experiences, and development of employment, education, and other post school adult living objectives. If appropriate, daily living skills and functional vocational evaluation may also be included.