Accommodations for Students With Disabilities

Differences Between High School and College

Delivery of accommodation services for high school students enrolled in College Connections are provided in accordance with the same policies and procedures provided for all Eastern Iowa Community College students.

There are some differences in disability laws that students need to be aware of when taking classes either at their high school, a community college or a university.

Differences in Disability Law Between High School (Secondary) and College (Postsecondary) Education

HIGH SCHOOL	COLLEGE
IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) Section 504, Rehabilitation Act of 1973 The school district is responsible for identifying the student’s disability Students have Individual Education Plans (IEPs) to define educational goals and allow assignments to be modified to the student’s abilities Parents are actively involved in their student’s educational planning. They can discuss their progress with teachers and counselors, as well as sign documents on behalf of their student Schools have a system set up for providing transportation to and from high school	ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) Section 504, Rehabilitation Act of 1973 Students must self-identify by requesting accommodations and providing documentation Students do not have IEPs, but instead receive accommodations to ensure equal access to educational opportunities Students are responsible for making decisions and signing documentation themselves. Students must sign a “release of information” for parents to speak with college personnel Students are responsible for finding their own transportation to and from campus for classes
Modification examples based on IEPs (NOT allowed in college)	Accommodation examples based on ADA (allowed in college)
Completing only 50% of questions on a test Having only choices A and B on a multiple choice test Unlimited time on exam Writing a 5-page paper instead of a 10-page paper Being allowed to turn in assignments late or take tests multiple times to improve grade Study guides or note cards for tests	Extended test time Testing in a reduced distraction area Use of text-to-speech software, such as Read & Write, to have test read aloud Accessible textbooks Copies of lecture notes from student or instructor (not to be used on tests)

Setting up Accommodations for Concurrent Students

For high school students attending classes on an EICC college campus, meet with EICC Disability Resources to draft a letter of accommodation using information from IEP or 504 plan.

For high school students attending classes at their high school, work with your high school IEP Team to set up accommodations according to college disability laws. There is no need for the students to meet with EICC Disability Resources.