How do you define extra time

[AmyWi]

I am having an IEP meeting next week to define what extra or extended time means for my high schooler who has dyslexia, adhd, and long term concussion symptoms. It has been open ended until now for both tests and assignments. College board gives her time 1/2. It has been proposed 2 extra days for assignments. We are running into teachers being gone and the each teacher interrupting differently. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

[Lisa Lightner]

First—great job pushing to get this clarified in the IEP. Vague accommodations are basically useless when every teacher gets to “interpret” them differently.

A few tips to consider:

• Define It in Plain Language
  Example: “Student will receive two additional school days, not calendar days, beyond the original due date for all assignments, unless otherwise mutually agreed upon in writing.”

• Add Clarification for When Teachers Are Absent
  Example: “If the teacher is absent on the original or extended due date, the due date will automatically extend by the number of days the teacher is unavailable.”

• Include a Communication Expectation
  Example: “Teachers will communicate any adjusted due dates in writing (email or learning management system) so the student and parent have clear documentation.”

• Specify for Tests and Quizzes
  Example: “Student will receive time and a half for all in-class tests and quizzes, consistent with College Board-approved accommodations.”

• Request Staff Training or Clarification
  Ask that teachers be given written instructions from the case manager or IEP team about how this is supposed to work across all classes.

You’re definitely on the right track. Tightening up the language now will save you a ton of headaches later.