Tuesday, May 3, 2011

Modified Tests for Disabled Students

Nirvi Shah
States Pressured to Curb Test Exemptions for Disabled Students
Published Online: May 3, 2011
Education Week
Complete URL: http://www.edweek.org/ew/articles/2011/05/03/30disabled_ep.h30.html?tkn=QZNFXKY4z7GQcBX8xqpminFtu4APmtpYH43J&cmp=ENL-EU-NEWS1

Currently states can administer an alternative test to one percent or less of students with the most severe disabilities. If they exceed the one percent cap, they risk getting a failing rating on their AYP (adequate yearly progress). This cap was used in place of a detailed description of who should qualify for the alternative test. By using the cap, states were able to use their judgment as to who qualifies for the alternative assessment.

The main issue as I see it is – students given the modified version of the test can’t receive a normal HS diploma. Thus it is imperative that only legitimate cases of severe disability receive the altered test.

This article is relevant to educators and parents, especially those associated with disabled students. Decisions about what test to take can have long term consequences, and need to be made carefully. The intended audience is primarily educators.

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