Some other programs, services, and aids that may be recommended on a student’s IEP are:
Accommodations and Modifications
Accommodations
Tools and procedures that give students with disabilities equal access to instruction and assessment. They are designed to level the playing field for students with disabilities, and are generally grouped into the following categories:
Presentation
This includes having the teacher or students:
- Repeat directions
- Read aloud
- Use larger bubbles on answer sheets
Response
Students with disabilities may need more than one way to respond--both in class or on homework, such as:
- Marking answers in book
- Using reference aids
- Pointing
- Using a computer
Timing/Scheduling
This can include:
- Extended time
- Frequent breaks
Setting
Students with disabilities may need a different setting from their peers. This can include:
- Study carrel
- Special lighting
- Separate room
For more information visit the Testing Accommodations page.
Modifications
Modifications change the content and/or the instructional level of the curriculum. Modifications are made for students with disabilities who are unable to understand the content an instructor is teaching. An example of modification is redesigning the size or focus of the assignment.
What's the Difference?
- Accommodations are changes in formats or procedures
- Modifications change the difficulty level and/or quantity of the content being taught
Accessible Education Materials
Accessible Education Materials (AEM) are textbooks and instructional materials that have been converted into a format that is accessible to a student who is unable to use standard printed materials. These formats include:
- Braille
- Large print
- Audio
- Digital text
If you believe your child requires AEM, reach out to your school. School staff can determine which, if any, format would benefit your child.
If your child requires AEM, the materials will be provided in school at the DOE’s expense. Families may also want to explore Bookshare, which provides free accounts for home use to eligible children.
Adaptive Equipment
Devices used to assist students with:
- Daily living activities
- Participation in the school environment
Physical and occupational therapists work with students to determine if these devices are needed. Some examples of adaptive equipment are:
- Standers
- gait trainers
- adaptive chairs
- feeding or toileting equipment
Adapted Physical Education
Adapted Physical Education (APE) is a specialized physical education program of:
- Developmental activities
- Games
- Sports
- Rhythms
The IEP team will recommend APE if your child cannot safely or successfully participate in the regular physical education program. APE teachers will adapt and modify a physical activity so that it is appropriate for the individual student.
Alternate Assessment
Used to evaluate the performance and progress of students who are unable to take part in standard assessments, even with testing accommodations. These measures of achievement:
- Provide eligible students with an alternative way to demonstrate their knowledge and skills
- Measure students’ progress towards achieving academic goals
- Support teachers and specialists in adapting instructional strategies and supports
- Are used by schools as part of their usual classroom assessment practices
The NY State Alternate Assessment (NYSAA) is part of the annual State testing process for all eligible students in grades 3-8 and in high school. The IEP must specify that your child is eligible for alternate assessments.
Declassification Services
Students who no longer need special education services are declassified after a reevaluation. Students who have been declassified will not have an IEP, but may receive the following services to ease the transition to general education:
- Instructional support
- Instructional modifications
- Testing accommodations
- Related services
These services may continue for up to one year after your child has been declassified.
Students who are declassified in grades 8-12 may be eligible for Safety Net diploma options if noted in the last IEP. To learn more about graduation options, visit the page on Graduation Requirements.
Extended School Year Services
Extended School Year (ESY) services are different from general education summer school. These services are recommended for students with disabilities who require special education over the summer to prevent substantial regression.
Children with an IEP recommendation for ESY may:
- Receive the same program and services in July – August as in September – June; or
- Receive less intense services in July – August.
Paraprofessional Services
A paraprofessional is an aide who provides assistance to students. It may be to an entire class or to an individual student. It can be for all, or part, of a school day.
You child’s IEP may recommend the support of a paraprofessional in:
- Behavior support
- Health
- Transportation
- Orientation and mobility
- Toileting
If your child has been recommended for a bilingual Integrated Co-Teaching or special class, but that class is not available, your child may receive support from a paraprofessional. If this happens, the paraprofessional will be bilingual in English and the recommended language of instruction for your child.
Travel Training
The Travel Training Program is a comprehensive program that teaches students with disabilities how to travel safely and independently on public transportation. The program has been in existence since 1970 and has served thousands of students. This specially designed instruction is provided on a one-to-one basis by specifically trained personnel. The students are taught the safest and most direct route to and from school or worksite. Included in instruction are teaching pedestrian skills, reinforcing appropriate and safe behaviors, problem solving skills, and use of alternative routes. Upon successful completion of the instructional program, students are expected to use public transportation independently. To learn more about Travel Training, call 212-802-1625, email d75traveltraining@schools.nyc.gov or visit the Travel Training Program website.
Student Safety & Independence Training for Families – Pilot Program (2025)
The Student Safety & Independence Training for Families pilot program is designed to empower families with the knowledge and resources to promote the safety skills of their own children with disabilities. Students with disabilities benefit from explicitly learning skills to ensure safety, leading to more freedom and independence, an increase in self-esteem, and more opportunities for jobs and independent living in the future. If each skill is imbedded and practiced until the student has demonstrated mastery, they should be able to travel using the city’s transit systems and pedestrian routes rather than yellow busing or other special transportation. This program fosters independence, enhances community inclusion, and builds a network of support among families navigating similar challenges.
To foster the safety skills required for teaching students with disabilities in the community/outside environment, a five-course virtual training was designed by the District 75 Office of Travel Training to effectively introduce the most important safety factors directly to parents to complement the field practice of introducing independent travel skills to their children.
Upon completing all five courses, families will be eligible to receive a prepaid OMNY card for their child as well as a prepaid OMNY card for themselves to travel alongside their child and practice the skills learned during this training series.
Note: Before receiving OMNY cards, you must agree to the amendment of your child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) to remove the specialized transportation (busing) recommendation. If a family elects to return to special transportation, they will be required to return the OMNY card(s).
If you are a parent or guardian of a student with a disability in NYC and are interested in participating in this pilot program, submit an application by May 23rd, 2025. Selected participants will be notified by May 27th, 2025.