Expert: Natasha Veale, Ph.D. - 10/14/2008

Question
My child has been diagnosed ADHD. The school tells me that they can't just make modification in Science and Math where he is having problems. They would have to make modifications everywhere. He is in third grade reading at a 4.5 level so I don't want his reading assignments modified. But they say he will have to go to a lower reading group if any mods are made.

Answer
Lewis, there are no legal requirements within Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act that restricts the realms of modifications. It does not say where a student has to have a modification. The team decides based ONLY on the child's needs and not what they are able to provide. For example, if a child is disorganized the team decides on a plan to help with organization. Your child needs help in Science and Math. That means the plan should only be  made for the modifications needed in Science and Math.

Here's a site to review. The Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services. www.ed.gov/offices/OSERS/OSEP

I hope this helps.