Staff Guide to

Accommodations and Modifications

2006
 Teaching All Students
Staff Guide to Accommodations and Modifications

Accommodations and Modifications, definition of........................ 1

Hierarchy of Accommodations and Modifications ........................ 2

Strategy Levels for Adapting Classroom Assignments................... 6

Fine Motor/Penmanship Accommodations and Modifications ............17

Reading Modifications/Accommodations ..................................19

Writing Modifications/Accommodations....................................21

Spelling Modifications/Accommodations...................................23

Mathematics Modifications/Accommodations ............................. 25

.

Content Area Modifications/Accommodations ............................27

Behavior Issues and Modifications/Accommodations .....................31

.

Elementary Scheduling Problems...........................................33

Grading with Accommodations and Modifications.........................34

Recipe for Success (General and Special Education Collaboration)......35

What Are Disabilities?.....................................................36

References .................................................................40

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 Accommodations and Modifications

Accommodations and modifications are types of adaptations that are made

to the environment, curriculum, instruction, or assessment practices in
order for students with disabilities to be successful learners and to
actively participate with other students in the general education classroom
and in school-wide activities.

Accommodations are changes in how a student accesses information and

demonstrates learning. Accommodations do not substantially change the
instructional level, content, or performance criteria. The changes are
made in order to provide a student with equal access to learning and an
equal opportunity to show what he or she knows and can do.
Accommodations can include changes in the following:
• presentation of a lesson
• instructional strategies
• student response format and procedures
• time/scheduling
• environment
• equipment
• assignment structure-paper/pencil work

Modifications are changes in what a student is expected to learn. The

changes are made to provide a student with opportunities to participate
meaningfully and productively along with other students in classroom and
school learning experiences. Modifications include changes in the following:
• instructional level
• content/curriculum
• performance criteria
• assignment structure-paper/pencil work

Reprinted with permission from the PEAK Parent Center

[Link]

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 Hierarchy of Accommodations and Modifications
Layers based on their effect on the general curriculum

All students do the same assignments. No changes in grading

Layer 0
criteria. It is the
No Changes
same for everyone.
All students do basically the same No changes in grading
Layer 1
assignments, except some receive additional criteria. It is the
Minimal Classroom
Changes support or reinforcement. same for everyone.
(minimal accommodations)
All students learn the same basic content, Grading criteria may
Layer 2
except with changes in how it is learned or vary slightly.
Classroom Changes
tested. (complex accommodations)
Some students do reduced or similar Grading criteria may
Layer 3
assignments, but at a less frustrating level. be based on individual
Some Changes to
Curriculum (accommodations and modifications) goals and class
participation.
Students do a smaller part of the general Grading criteria is
Layer 4
curriculum. based on individual
Significant Changes
to Curriculum (significant accommodations and goals and class
modifications) participation.
Students do alternate activities relating to Grading criteria is
Layer 5
the general curriculum. based on individual
Significant Changes
to Curriculum (significant accommodations and goals and class
modifications) participation.

*Less than 10% of the special education students participating in general education classes
need Layer 4 or 5 supports. The majority of our special education students can be
successful and master much of the general education curriculum with Layer 2 or 3
accommodations.

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 Layers 1 and 2: Minimal Accommodations
Environment – Adapt the classroom environment so it makes learning
possible for ALL students. Things you can try:
• Provide an orderly and predictable room
• Post VISUAL reminders of the rules and procedures
• Reduce clutter
• Be consistent
• Label key areas clearly – (Turn in papers here.)
• Seat target students away from major distractions like doorways,
pencil sharpeners, other irritating students, etc.
• Use behavior cue cards and put them on target student’s desk
• Allow for age appropriate and discrete sensory stimulation – stress
balls, fidget toys, etc. These help minimize larger distractions like
tipping back in seats, constantly getting out of seat, etc.
• Allow the use of earplugs or headphones (without input/hookups) to
block out background noise during study time, test-taking, and
classroom assignment time
• Always keep the Closed Captioning option ON when showing videos or
TV segments so that all students can listen to and read the
information.

Content Instruction – Accommodations in instruction and changes in

instructional strategies can enhance learning for the entire class. Things
you can try:
• Give at-risk students a very basic introduction to the subject
immediately before starting the lesson for the whole class. Ask
questions and direct discussions to elicit prior knowledge from the
at-risk students.
• Include hands-on experiences and manipulatives whenever possible.
• Use experiments and other “being there” experiences to make the
lesson memorable.
• Schedule field trips at the BEGINNING of the unit to give
disadvantaged learners critical background experiences and
information to benefit from the ensuing instruction.
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• Continue to repeat and rephrase the major point(s) of the unit or
lesson.
• Insert meanings of vocabulary continuously throughout the lesson.
For example, in a geography lesson the teacher asks the question
“What do the contour (or curved) lines on the map represent?” In a
science lesson the teacher explains that mold often grows in places
that are dark and moist (or wet).
• During class participation, ask the target student a question about
the main idea and state they have a minute to think about it or
discuss it quietly with their (pre-selected) neighbor. Return to the
student in a minute and re-ask the question. Allow for additional
response time.
• Provide entertaining stories or fun mnemonics which support a point
or help students remember vocabulary words or concepts.
• Partner students for activities. Allow for some groups of three so
significantly challenged students can be easily included with two
capable peers.
• Demonstrate how to use graphic organizers and then provide them so
students learn how to categorize and organize information.
• Provide study guides for tests well in advance of the test.
• Offer copies of lecture notes to students who cannot copy accurately
or quickly, have poor penmanship, or note-taking skills. Throughout
the year help students fix their own notes using yours as a guide.

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 Layers 3, 4 and 5 -Increased Accommodations
and Modifications
Assignment Structure-Paper/Pencil Work - Making workbooks, worksheets
or other written assignments accessible to all students can be a challenge.
It takes knowing both the students AND the material to be taught in order
to make reasonable adjustments to written assignments. Simple ways to
make accommodations and modifications to paper/pencil tasks can be
accomplished by:
• highlighting with colored highlighters
• highlighting with removable highlighter tape
• marking text with Post-it notes
• marking pages with Post-it flags
• color coding pages, notes, and handouts
• using white out on parts of paper or to eliminate some multiple-choice
answers

Content Instruction
• Reduce the variety of tasks (The class is practicing mixed addition
and subtraction facts with flashcards; two students have addition-
only cards.)
• Eliminate less critical information and facts from a copy of your
notes (or those of a capable peer) using white out tape. Give it to
struggling students to use as a study guide.
• Physically move closer to a struggling student before asking him/her
a question. Teach this system to the student so he/she can mentally
and emotionally prepare for answering questions. This reduces the
stress, anxiety, and fear of being selected without warning.
• Find ways to involve students with significant disabilities in class
jobs - passing out papers, collecting materials, taking roll, retrieving
items from the office, etc.
• When asking questions that have several correct answers, select a
disabled student first. He/she might only know one of the answers,
whereas other students will know most or all of them.

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 Strategy Levels for Adapting Classroom
Assignments (paper/pencil work)

The START program at Grand Valley State University compiled a system of

academic accommodation and modification strategy levels. They range from
not modified (number 1) to most modified (number 5).

1. Open-ended question strategies (Usually not modified)

2. Visual organization strategies
3. Closed procedure strategies
4. Choice strategies
5. Yes/No strategies (Too modified for most students)

Knowing the answer and being able to articulate it clearly are two different things!
Accommodations and modifications help students demonstrate what they DO know.
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1. Open-ended Question Strategies – The open-ended questions are
the most difficult. Many students have trouble with written language
or have difficulty processing spoken language. They may not be able
to answer open-ended questions in the curriculum even though they
have some understanding of the content.

Examples of open-ended question strategies:

• Science – Describe at least 2 ways Mary can improve her experiment.

• Social Studies – How are a globe and a dollhouse alike?

• Math –There are 5 blue birds in a cage. There are 5 times as many green
birds in another cage. How many green birds are there?

• Language Arts – In a story, a character usually faces a problem. For

example, a child named Connor wants a pet but is allergic to cat and dog
hair. The ending of the story is important. Finish the story in a few
sentences.

Open-ended Questions-No Modifications

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2. Visual Organization Strategies – Visual organization strategies make
up the second level of accommodations and modifications. These
strategies should provide students with a kick-start and provide an
understanding of what the key information in the question is or what
type of answer is expected. They assist the student in organizing the
answer.

Examples of visual organization strategies:

• Science – Mary could improve her experiment by:
1.____________________________
2.____________________________
3.____________________________

• Social Studies – How are a globe and a dollhouse alike? A globe and
dollhouse are alike because they both___________________________.

• Math –There are 5 blue birds in a cage. There are 5 times as many
green birds in another cage. How many green birds are there?________

• Language Arts – Connor wants a pet but is allergic to cat and dog hair.
1. Connor should___________________________________
2. This way he___________________________________
3. In the end____________________________________

Visual Organization Example

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3. Closed Strategies – Closed strategies are the third level and make
question-answering easier. Closed strategies narrow the depth of the
curriculum and help the student understand its focus. They allow
students to practice answering questions in a systematic format.
Closed strategies can alleviate the anxiety the student feels from the
overwhelming complexities of the curriculum.

Examples of closed strategies:

• Science – Mary needs to be sure all the pieces of cloth are____________

• Social Studies – A globe and dollhouse are alike because they are a
____________of the real thing.

• Math –There are 5 blue birds in a cage. There are 5 times as many
green birds in another cage. How many green birds are there?

5 blue birds X 5 = ______ green birds

• Language Arts – Connor is allergic to ______________ and _______hair.

A pet he might not be allergic to is a ______________________.

Closed Strategy Example

15. Describe “climate”.

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4. Choice Strategies – Choice strategies provide the student with a
visual method aiding recall. They can be made in varying levels of
difficulty. Choice strategies can also be used with concrete objects.
Teachers who already have multiple-choice tests/work developed for
the class can narrow the number of choices to two or three for
students with significant learning challenges.

Examples of choice strategies:

• Science – Circle one way Mary could improve her experiment.
Pieces of cloth need to be the same size
Use more clothing made by Girbau

• Social Studies – Circle 2 things that are alike because they are both models
of the real thing.
Globe State Dollhouse

• Math – 5 X 5 = ______________
20 25 30

• Language Arts – What might be two good pets for Connor?

Bird Puppy Fish

Choice Strategy Example

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5. Yes/No Strategies – Yes/No strategies are not appropriate for most
special needs students. They should only be used in extreme
situations when it has been determined that all other strategies are
too difficult for the student. A Yes/No strategy must be
systematically taught to a student. The person modifying the
curriculum must consistently deliver the Yes/No strategy to the
student. Once the student has made a Yes/No decision, the student
must be held accountable for his actions in order to teach the
meaning of Yes/No.

Examples of Yes/No strategies:

• Science – If Mary wanted to improve her experiment, she could make sure
the pieces of cloth were the same size.
Yes No

• Social Studies – Are a globe and a dollhouse both models of the real thing?
Yes No

• Math – 5 X 5 = 20
Yes No

• Language Arts – Is a bird possibly a good pet for Connor?

Yes No

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 Worksheet/Textbook Sample
Accommodations and Modifications
Sample from 6th Grade Social Studies Textbook

Most special education students will have trouble with the following
assignment because of:
• difficulty copying information
• difficulty locating information/answers in textbook
• the amount of print – students instantly assume it is too hard to do
• low reading abilities - they feel defeated before they even try it
• an expectation of failure - they don’t know how to achieve success
Textbook Example – Without Modifications

Ways to change this assignment

• Reduce the amount of required writing
• Give page numbers where answers are found
• Make it meaningful by highlighting what is on the test
• Use visual organization strategies to make assignment less overwhelming

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Visual Organization Strategy
Using Vocabulary section-
Accommodation only

Exactly the same information is

presented, but the content is
visually organized in a table and the
amount of writing required by the
student is greatly reduced.

Visual Organization Strategy

Remembering What You Read section-
Minimal Modification

The content is the same. Each

question is visually separated
from the others with answer
lines. Page numbers are
provided to aid the student in
finding the needed information.

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Choice Strategy
Unit vocabulary, 5th grade example

In order to copy the words from the worksheet, the student used a large sticky note to
help keep her place.

The following layer 4 accommodations and modifications were assigned to a

significantly disabled student:

1. Find highlighted vocabulary words in the textbook with some help.

2. Circle the correct vocabulary words on the worksheet. (Someone
checks paper for accuracy.)
3. Copy the words and definitions on separate lined paper.
4. Keep copies of all work in a notebook.
5. Use copies for study guides.

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 6th grade social studies assignment-no modifications

Many students would have difficulty with the following assignment

because:
1. They are inaccurate when estimating.
2. The map scale is too small. Students will get kilometers and miles
confused.
3. Students have trouble drawing straight lines.

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Ways to change this assignment

Visual Organization accommodations made to this assignment:

• lines are drawn on the map
• measuring card with a straight edge is given to students to use

A flat edge measuring card was made using an index card and the map scale.

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 Fine Motor/Penmanship
Modifications/Accommodations
Delays in fine motor skills can make writing excruciating for disabled
students. They frequently get frustrated and behavior issues ensue.
Alleviating the frustration can result in a positive learning experience.

Low technology strategies to try:

• Use a triangle pencil grip for better control
• Use a weighted pencil
• Vary length and thickness of pencil
• Vary writing implement (crayons, colored pencils, fine markers)
• Put something textured (such as fine sand paper) under the paper
• Provide various sizes of wide-ruled paper, gradually decrease size
• Purchase raised-line paper
• Apply thin lines of glue over lines to make a raised edge when dry
• Use a straight edge for writing
• Skip every other line on paper
• Enlarge paper on copy machine to make fill-in blanks larger
• Use mounted scissors and paper holder for cutting
• Highlight or outline areas to be filled in
• Provide small mailing labels already typed with the student’s name
• Reduce the amount of writing/pencil work required
• Allow additional time for writing
• Provide close-up model to copy from instead of board or overhead screen
• Indicate to parent when it is appropriate to write for the student
• Place alphabet strip on desk if student has difficulty forming letters

additional time weighted pencil pre-printed name labels

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Medium technology strategies to try:
• Chair with sides for trunk support
• Slant board (writing on an easel stand)
• Label maker for taking spelling tests
• Recorder for giving oral answers that are later transcribed to paper
• Partner to take dictation (someone else writes as student talks)

clipboard with stand digital recorder

High technology strategies to try:

• Word processor
• Digital notepad
• Computer with voice recognition capabilities

NEO AlphaSmart Portable Word Processor

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 Reading Modifications/Accommodations
The majority of students who receive special education services have
difficulty in the area of reading. Since reading encompasses much of the
school day, textbook modifications are critical if these students are to
receive an appropriate education. Many teachers ask the question, “How
can a student be included in a general education class, if the student is
unable to read the textbook? “ Replace that question with, “How much
material will the student be able to learn and/or understand when the
information is presented in another manner?”
Inclusion, 450 Strategies for Success, by Peggy Hammeken

Low technology strategies to try:

• Don’t assume the student can read cursive – MANY special needs students
(regardless of age) CANNOT read cursive writing
• Read the text aloud to the class or to a small group
• Vary the groups so students with disabilities become familiar with the
procedures of working in small groups and are exposed to many peers
• If a non-reader is included in the class, group him/her with your best oral
reader(s)
• Divide the class into two groups if another adult is present to help
• Teacher, paraprofessional or adult volunteer reads to student
• Partner students so they can read aloud to each other
• Provide a note-taking format BEFORE beginning reading to guide comprehension
• Highlight key words and concepts
• Help student re-read key ideas and highlighted content
• Simplify complex text by rewording (break a complex sentence into several short
sentences)
• Reduce the amount of reading required (Student reads the summary three times
while the class reads the entire chapter.)
• Allow additional time to read
• Provide vocabulary lists with user-friendly definitions

colored strip - simple visual

to help students keep their
place as they read

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 • Substitute one-page summaries or study guides that identify key terms and ideas
instead of the whole reading assignment
• Use Closed Captioning for all TV/video viewing so students see words and speech
connected.
• Put main ideas on note cards and help students organize them
• Glue dots on page corners to make turning pages easier for very young students
• Provide colored/highlighted strips to assist students in following along in
textbook
• Use bookmarks to help keep place
• Provide books on tape, videotapes, etc (free from book companies, libraries, and
services to the visually impaired)
• Use large print text (enlarge on copier or books on loan from Visually Impaired
programs)
• Add images that illustrate the content (i.e. Google Images)

Dictionary definition: in‚teg‚ri‚ty (ĭn-tĕg'-rĭ-tē)

n.
1. Steadfast adherence to a strict moral or ethical code.
2. The state of being unimpaired; soundness.
3. The quality or condition of being whole or undivided;
completeness.

Student Friendly definition: in-teg-ri-ty (in-teg-ru-tee)

n. doing what is right

High technology strategies to try:

• Online books
• Electronic books
• Text reader (Reading Pen, Scan and Read)
• Electronic dictionary

The Reading Pen scans Computer programs can

and reads aloud words read aloud from websites,
and sentences. It also books on line, scanned
provides definitions. worksheets, and more.
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 Writing Modifications/Accommodations
Many students have difficulty with written language for a variety of
reasons. Some students have trouble generating ideas or transferring
their ideas into written words. Other students do not understand
grammar, syntax, or the mechanics of writing. Still others have difficulty
processing language.

Generating Ideas:
• Teach writing each day; don’t just assign it
• Give the student specific instructions-gradually decrease structure as
confidence builds
• Allow student to use ideas from a word/idea bank
• Allow student to write about segments of the same topic for several days
• After a topic has been chosen, assist the student in developing a visual
outline/graphic organizer
• Keep pictures available to help generate ideas
• Require a minimal amount of writing per day-gradually increase the expectations
(Be prepared to start with very little!)
• Allow student to bring a picture from home to write about
• Allow lists and simple sentences-help student to gradually become more complex
• Allow students to dictate ideas to teacher, paraprofessional or volunteer
• Require/encourage student to copy material from the volunteer’s dictation
• Provide a list of words for the student to use
• Provide a clearly written topic sentence and an informal outline to get the
student started on a paragraph or essay

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The Writing Process:
• Avoid corrections in the mechanical aspects in early stages of writing-
concentrate on idea development
• Teach and require the use of graphic organizers/outlines/mapping skills to help
students learn to visualize the parts of the paragraph/essay/story
• Teach importance of beginning, middle and end of stories
• Require students to incorporate transition words (ex. first, next, then, last or
most importantly, also of interest ) into paragraph writing
• Teach proofreading skills
• Allow use of checklist for proofreading
• Have the students read the story aloud to identify inaccurate construction of
sentences
• Encourage students to share stories with the class or a partner - do not require
disabled students to read their work to the class if they are uncomfortable
(They learn from hearing good stories modeled for them.)
• Allow the use of a computer or word processor

• Value quality over quantity - look for a well-written paragraph instead of a longer
story of mutilated sentences and atrocious spelling
• Allow fill-in-the-blank forms for the beginning stages of report writing
• Allow multiple formats for presentations, including some that don’t include
writing
• Allow reduced sources and modified format when writing research papers
• Allow disabled students to work together to generate one report
• Allow students to dictate stories, reports, etc. to volunteers/peers
• Require students to practice reading aloud the stories they dictated
• Develop a spelling dictionary for frequently misspelled words

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 Spelling Modifications/Accommodations
Spelling should be compatible with the student’s reading level. For
younger students or significantly disabled students who are not ready
for a formal spelling program, students can practice letter formation,
sound/symbol relationships and fine motor skills. As soon as the child is
capable of remembering short sight words (is, the, a, etc.) or can blend
two sounds (an, am, in, on, etc.), a formal spelling program can be
implemented.

Pre-spelling activities:
• Create a spelling list of consonant sounds that coincide with the initial letter
sounds of the class spelling list
• Student writes the beginning sound of word while the class writes the word
• Begin with simple sight words and short phonetic words as soon as the child
knows enough letters and sounds
• Practice spelling student’s own name and gradually add other familiar names to
spell
• Develop a spelling list that also makes a sentence-“I am Meg.”
• Allow lots of practice reading, tracing, writing, sequencing, stamping, building and
finding spelling words and sentences

Spelling activities:
• Give student a PRINTED list of words to practice (not cursive)
• Reduce the number of spelling words on the list
• Allow student to set an individual spelling goal for number correct on test
• Gradually increase the number of required spelling words IF the student is making
a mastery goal
• Group spelling words into word families or similar patterns
• Replace a few unfamiliar words with high frequency sight words
• Incorporate familiar words from student’s basal reader or leveled books
• Chose spelling words relevant to curriculum and consistent with the child’s
vocabulary
• Teach students to isolate (say) each sound in the word and match them with the
spelling for that sound:

through
sound: /th/ /r/ /oo/ (as in pool)
Spelling: th r ough

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• Create a format that can be used with all students even though word lists vary
• Use the previous year’s spelling lists
• Teach student to highlight base words, prefixes and suffixes in different colors
• Teach only one spelling rule at a time
• Combine spelling and handwriting goals to save time - practice spelling words
during handwriting practice
• Allow spelling practice time each day
• Provide fun drill and practice exercises like bingo, hangman, word finds, etc.
• In addition to paper and pencil practice, encourage use of practice with white
boards, paint, stamps, computer, orally in small groups, or on a tape recorder
• Provide audiocassette with words pronounced and spelled for student to listen to
during extra class time or at home if appropriate
• Teach mnemonic devices to help spell difficult words (Wed - nes- day, the
principal is your pal)
• Allow some choice for spelling practice methods
• Encourage student to verbalize sounds while writing spelling words

Marking affixes on spelling words and pairing A label maker can be used to take
with student friendly definitions: a spelling test or to practice words

prepare - to get ready

presume - to expect or assume with confidence

function - what something does

retention - holding something back

uncovered - shown, not covered

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 Mathematics Modifications/Accommodations
Students with disabilities frequently have difficulty with auditory and
visual processing, along with delays in short term memory. Because math
usually requires the use of multiple sequential steps in order to produce an
answer, students get frustrated and confused. Students will need the use
of concrete objects (manipulatives) and visual examples whenever possible.

Low and medium technology strategies to try:

• Introduce concepts using real life examples whenever possible
• Don’t worry about perfect calculations when teaching a concept-focus on the
process first
• Teach key math terms separately
• Provide student with an easy to read dictionary of required math terms
• Include drawings and examples to illustrate the meaning of terms
• When teaching abstract concepts, use drawings, diagrams, and visual
demonstrations to establish a concrete relationship
• When demonstrating concepts use color coding to focus student attention
• Highlight similar math operations to help students focus on the operation (ex.
multiplication in blue, division in green)
• Cluster similar problems into groups
• Teach fact families and build fluency with games and challenges
• Teach students to highlight each operation in mixed-operation worksheets
• Model math problems using manipulatives whenever possible (overhead
manipulatives for math are readily available)
• When teaching number lines-use tape or draw a number line on the floor for
students to walk on (This assists students with directionality too.)
• Enlarge worksheets/assignments on copier to give more writing space
• Put boxes around each problem to visually separate them
• Use manipulatives whenever possible (coins, counters, grouping rings)
• Allow use of number lines
• Allow use of a multiplication chart
• Use large graph paper to assist with proper alignment of columns of numbers
• Reduce the number of practice or test problems on a page
• Allow additional time to complete assignments
• Simplify and rephrase vocabulary in word problems
• Have students verbalize the process to you
• Turn lined paper vertically so the student has ready made columns
• Don’t penalize students with fine motor difficulty by requiring them to copy
problems-focus on the math operations and allow them to use copied sheets

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 • Create a math reference book that has easy to read information and illustrations
of the concepts covered in class
• Challenge student to do just one line of problems at a time
• Use memory devices (Order of operations: “Please Excuse My Dear Aunt Sally”
for Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication, Division, Addition, Subtraction)
• Calculator
• Large-size calculator
• Simple-function calculator
• Calculator with print-out
• Coin-u-lator (calculator that performs operations with coin buttons)

Coin-u-lator

High technology strategies to try:

• Talking calculator
• Adapted measuring devices (talking ruler, clock, etc.)
• Computer with math software
• Wireless number pad for computer
• Speech recognition devices

talking tape measure

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 Content Area Modifications/Accommodations
Please refer to the other sections for basic modification and
accommodation suggestions. Following are additional things you can try in
content area classes such as science, history, or home economics to
enhance learning and class participation:

Taking Notes:
• Give the student a copy of the class notes
• Give the student a partial outline to complete when taking notes
• Have another student make a copy of the notes
• Use a tape recorder
• Provide additional instruction on note taking
• Give student a copy of the notes before the lecture and have the student
highlight key areas while the lecture is taking place
• At the end of class, allow students to compare the notes they took during class to
your notes
• Turn on Closed Captioning if students will need to remember and/or take notes
from a TV or video segment.

Completing Classroom Assignments:

• Provide page numbers to locate answers
• Keep questions in the order of reading material
• Reduce the volume of the assignment
• Highlight or underline answers
• Provide a word bank
• Break material into smaller parts
• Allow students to work with a responsible partner
• Take turns – you do a problem, the student does a problem
• If you use vocabulary word finds, provide a word bank
• If you use crossword puzzles, provide a word bank
• Make assignment more visually organized (refer to visual organization strategies)
• Provide multiple choice answers

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Test Taking:
• Write test date in a highly visual place, repeat often prior to test day
• Allow student more time to take test
• Repeat and rephrase directions
• Review notes, worksheets, text and study guides
• Provide study guide well in advance of test
• Read the test aloud
• Allow oral answers
• Allow use of textbook, notes or study guide while test taking
• Provide vocabulary list or word bank
• Allow student to dictate essay answers to teacher, paraprofessional, or tape
recorder
• Allow student to write on test instead of, or in addition to an answer sheet
• Provide a “second chance” grading option (fix answers for additional points)
• Add more white space to tests
• Use blanks to cue answers (number of blanks refers to number of correct
answers)
• Break long lists of matching into more groups of short lists
• Delete irrelevant or repeated items (cross them out on the student’s test)
• Allow breaks during testing
• Administer tests in quiet places
• Shorten tests
• Reduce multiple choice answer options using white-out tape
• Narrow the depth of the curriculum (if appropriate) and only test key vocabulary
and key concepts

Reading Material:
• Allow student to have a second copy of the textbook to keep at home
• Read the textbook aloud
• Allow reading with a partner
• Provide textbook on audiotape or videotape
• Decrease the amount of required reading-find information in other forms
• Allow extra time for reading
• Provide large print textbook or larger print copies or notes
• Use lots of visuals to reinforce reading material-films, videotapes, computer
programs
• Provide summaries or outlines that identify key terms and ideas
• Use a parallel textbook (same material, lower reading level)
• Pre-teach vocabulary, provide written summary of vocabulary and definitions
• Assist student to organize main ideas by using and organizing index cards

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 • Orally review important vocabulary frequently
• Activate student’s prior knowledge and build on that
• Ask questions before, during and after selected readings
• Use lots of pictures and manipulatives

Keeping students on task:

• Reduce distractions
• Reinforce on-task behavior
• Provide shorten tasks
• Provide checklist of things to do
• Make sure student’s work place is clear of unneeded materials
• Reduce the amount of required work
• Use peer helpers or peer tutors
• Vary activities often
• Keep student from distractions by special seating, study corrals, etc.
• Set a “beat the timer” goal for completion of smaller amounts of work

Keeping students interested:

• Tell stories that relate the lesson to real life
• Relate the lesson to things children that age experience
• Seat the student by the teacher-proximity effects interest
• Use cues to begin work
• Give work in smaller amounts
• Provide lots of encouragement
• Sequence work with easiest answers first
• Make sure student has all needed materials
• Make sure the student knows exactly what is expected
• Check on progress often throughout class time
• Give clear directions and repeat and rephrase them
• Allow directed peer discussion about the material
• Ask the special needs student to help another student when appropriate

Completing work on time:

visual timers help students
• Reduce the length of the assignment to develop better
• Allow extra time to complete assignment time-management skills
• Write schedule on board
• Write assignment and due date in a student planner
• Help student plan their use of time
• Break assignments up and have several due dates
for the pieces
• Help the student keep a calendar
• Develop checklists
• Periodically remind the student of time
• Use a timer to define designated work times
• Reward student for getting work done in the designated time

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Keeping students organized:
• Require an assignment notebook or planner
• Check the notebook/planner daily
• Have the student number the notebook pages
• Require the student to keep a notebook/folder for each subject
• Color code notebooks and folders by subject
• Color code pages/dividers in notebook by tests, study guides, etc.
• Have student immediately file papers in notebook before exiting room or moving on to
another activity
• Allow student easy access to a hole punching device
• Assign a notebook buddy from the class (someone who has good organizational skills)
• Help student develop self-checking skills for remembering classroom supplies
• Use visuals to help student remember supplies (post on outside of classroom door, inside
classroom, on student folders or in student locker)
• Print assignment neatly on board for student or helper to copy
• Require envelopes for projects with lots of pieces or parts
• Ask the student to tell you what materials will be needed
• Keep an extra set of materials in the room
• Resist the urge to penalize the student for being forgetful-instead consider alternate or
creative ways to help the child remember
• Give reinforcement for bringing materials to class
• Develop non-verbal cues to help remind student to self-check for materials
• Use Post-it notes to mark assignments in the textbook
• Write the assignment requirements on the Post-it notes
• Break large assignments into smaller parts for the student and meet with student daily to
provide feedback (essay due in 1 month: tomorrow 3 topic ideas due, pick one; end of
week, informal outline due, provide guidance; next week introductory paragraph with topic
sentence due, make sure it matches outline and give suggestions, etc.)

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 Behavior Modifications/Accommodations
Why do so many special needs students have behavior issues?
Most classroom behavior issues are the result of years of frustration, failure and the
instinctive desire of “wanting to fit in with your peers”. Instinct helps us hide larger
issues of humiliation. It is more acceptable to appear like you’re acting stupid on
purpose. Other students think a “class clown” is funny. They don’t think an academic
failure is.

When are students most likely to be disruptive?

• Assume an in-service is about 50-60 minutes long. The presenter (teacher) gives
you an assignment written in Chinese. The students in the class know how to
read Chinese, except for you. Will you sit there quietly for an hour or will you
get bored and start fidgeting or bugging your neighbor?
• You must go to an in-service that you have no interest in and you know (or think)
the presenter doesn’t like you or thinks you are stupid. What if you attend the
in-service hoping to learn something new and the presenter never tells you how
you will use the information he or she is teaching in your real-life job? How much
attention will you give that presenter? How motivated are you to learn the
content?

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Strategies:
• It is important to get the respect of everyone in the classroom by giving it.
• Take time to get to know all students.
• Have a sense of humor, for your own sake and your students
• Discreetly let the special needs students know that you understand their
learning difficulties and you are willing to help them be successful in the class.
• Provide modifications BEFORE disruptions occur.
• Don’t take behavior situations personally. Don’t show emotion or get drawn into
conflict.
• Be sure classroom rules are posted and reviewed regularly so everyone
understands them. Don’t assume the special needs students know the rules.
Remind them regularly.
• Be consistent. Hold everyone accountable to posted classroom rules.
• Don’t accept refusal to do assignments. Provide reasonable modifications and
insist on a completed assignment, even if it means the student works during lunch
or after school.
• Don’t be sarcastic. Sarcasm cuts very deeply. Remember that comprehension
and attention are usually issues. Get used to giving directions multiple times and
in multiple ways. Most students are not trying to deliberately annoy their
teachers by not understanding the directions. THEY REALLY DON’T GET IT.
• Use VISUALS all the time, with auditory back-up. Most of us are visual learners.
If we see something, we can internalize it faster. PRINT assignments and due
dates in visible places. Repeat them orally multiple times. Add icons or pictures
whenever possible.
• Develop a discrete hand signal to use with the student to indicate their need to
modify behavior.
• For a student with frequent behavior issues, ask the IEP team to develop a
behavior plan (can be done at any time of year, not just at the annual IEP
meeting.)

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 Elementary Scheduling Problems?
Smaller school districts usually have GIGANTIC scheduling problems simply because of
limited time and resources available to implement an ideal schedule. It is often
impossible to align special education and general education schedules, especially at an
elementary level. This means that special needs students will be in the general
education classroom during subjects that are very difficult for them or that they will
enter or leave a class in the middle of a lesson.

Keep in mind that students with disabilities need as much instruction as possible in
order to make academic gains. Current research indicates that students who are
receiving special education support for reading should NOT be removed from the
general education classroom during reading instruction times, even though it is difficult
for them.

Following are a few suggestions for times when special needs students enter the room in
the middle or near the end of a lesson. The preference is to include students in the
lesson whenever possible. (Refer to other sections of this document for additional
ideas regarding making adaptations when students are scheduled for classes that are
academically overwhelming.)

English Spelling
• include them in the lesson • include them in the lesson
• give them sentences to fix and copy • print 5 or more of the spelling
• highlight all the –ed endings on a words 3-5 times each
copied page • use computer to type out words
• circle each word that has an –s • write words on white board
added to the end • listen to recording of words being
• do a journal entry spelled
Math Reading
• include them in the lesson • group disabled students with higher
• give them a page of easier reading groups so the story can be
calculations to do enjoyed and good reading strategies
• use calculator to do some problems are modeled
• use manipulatives, charts, etc • rotate the group the special needs
• do a fluency challenge student joins
• count/sort money • include borderline readers in with
• measure various items the group closest to their ability

ƒ Don’t let students think they are not responsible for general education
activities.
ƒ Be sure ALL students have ALL textbooks-even if some can’t read it or
won’t use it often.

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 Grading with Accommodations and Modifications
Based on the Individualized Education Plan (IEP), a particular child may have certain
accommodations and/or modifications that are required by law. (The IEP is a legally-binding
document.) Other students, however, may not have this written into an IEP, but will need
accommodations and modifications in order to get the most from instruction. Grading is not
changed or altered when you make an accommodation for a student. Modifications which
change the content or curriculum, can impact grading. The IEP is the place to clarify how a
particular student will be graded, ranging from “same as others in class” to grading based
primarily on “class attendance and participation”.

Computerized Grading Programs

Most teachers have access to computerized grading software programs. Programs such as this
make it relatively easy to incorporate modified assignments into an already established grading
system.

• Grade assignments on percentages. Enter the percentage correct of each student’s

required amount of work. For instance, Joe is required to do 5 problems and he gets 4
correct or 80%. Amanda is required to do 10 problems and gets 7 correct or 70%.
• Use the “excuse” option. Most programs allow you to excuse a student from an
assignment. The program will not count that assignment when totaling the grading
percentages for that particular student.
• Set up a separate modified class. This option is a little more work to do, but does have
some benefits. If you teach 6th grade social studies, set up your regular classes on the
computer and add one more titled 6th Grade SS Modified Curriculum. Enter the students
who need modifications in that class. Remember, NOT ALL special needs students will
require significant modifications.

Report Cards
When modifying the general education curriculum, be sure to indicate that on the student’s
report card. Teachers in grades K-4 can write “modified curriculum” on the report card.
Teachers in grades 5 and up can select the comment code that indicates modified curriculum.

Questions to ask yourself:

1. Is my main objective to teach ALL students in my classroom?
2. Do I want ALL students to learn some content from this class?
3. If a child has limited memory, what is MOST important for him/her to know?
4. Are my special needs students participating in state or federal assessment tests?
**This answer is YES, for most special education students.
5. How will accommodations benefit not only the special needs students in my class, but
other disadvantaged and at-risk students as well?

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 A Recipe for Success for ALL Students
Whose responsibility is it anyway?

1. Special educators should communicate with general educators PRIOR to the start of the
school year. Special ed. teachers can share a summary of the IEP information, as well as the
unique qualities and learning styles of the students. Most important is sharing the legal
requirements for general education modifications and accommodations. THIS IS
CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION AND SHOULD BE CAREFULLY PROTECTED!!!

2. General education teachers should assume ownership of the special needs students in their
classroom. These children are part the classroom community the same as any other child in the
class. Each teacher should explain and post learning and behavioral expectations and
consequences for all students to reference.

3. Special educators should partner with general education teachers to help implement
modifications and accommodations.
• Provide direction/help to modify assignments and tests/assist in reading assignments
and tests/help implement behavioral supports
• Be available, helpful, and supportive of the general education teachers

4. When special education staff are helping to make accommodations and modifications to the
curriculum for general education teachers, it is considerate to provide the materials needed
(tests, assignments and answer keys) well in advance of due dates.

5. General education teachers (grades 4 and up) should take the time to talk with each special
needs student individually, and in private during the first few days of school.
• Explain that you understand he/she has learning/reading difficulties and this class may
be difficult for them.
• Explain how you will apply the IEP-required (or suggested) accommodations and
modifications.
• Tell him/her that you are available to discuss any assignment that seems too difficult.
• Restate your academic and behavioral expectations for the student in simple terms.

6. Special educators and general educators should respect each other’s additional
responsibilities and help each other in any way possible. Modifications and accommodations are
EVERYONE’S responsibility and they are REQUIRED as outlined in federal and state LAW
(Individual with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) 1997, Reauthorization of IDEA 2004 and the Rehabilitation Act of
1973-Section 504)

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 What are Disabilities?
A wide range of disabilities may affect the students in your classroom or school. The
Internet can be a great source of information, but can also be a source of
misinformation. In general, look for websites ending in .org and endorsed by specialist
in the field. One excellent source of information is [Link]

What is a Learning Disability?

A learning disability is a neurological disorder that affects one or more of the basic
psychological processes involved in understanding or in using spoken or written language.
The disability may manifest itself in an imperfect ability to listen, think, speak, read,
write, spell, or to do mathematical calculations. A large percentage of the students
with special needs have a learning disability.

Every individual with a learning disability is unique and shows a different combination
and degree of difficulties. A common characteristic among people with learning
disabilities is uneven areas of ability, “a weakness within a sea of strengths.” For
instance, a child with dyslexia who struggles with reading, writing and spelling may be
very capable in math and science.
Learning Disabilities Association of America

Individuals with learning disabilities (LD) have:

• Average to above average intelligence
• A significant delay in one or more areas of learning
• A gap between potential and actual achievement
• Gifts and talents in other areas such as mechanics, construction, sports, drama, etc.
• A lifelong disability that cannot be cured or fixed

LD should not be confused with learning problems related to:

• Mental retardation
• Vision or hearing defects (blind, deaf etc.)
• Motor handicaps (cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, paralysis, etc.)
• Attention disorders
• Autism
• Emotional disturbances (depression, bipolar, etc.)
• Environmental, cultural or economic disadvantages
• Abuse (drugs, alcohol, physical, sexual, mental, emotional)

Any one of the above problems can occur in addition to a learning disability except
mental retardation. Individuals with LD that have proper intervention and support can
achieve success in school, work, relationships and the community. source: [Link]

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 Famous People with Learning Disabilities
The information below was obtained through interviews and stories from the website [Link].

Jay Leno – Comedian

Leno has a mild learning disability. He graduated from Emerson College in Boston, but getting into that college
was difficult. According to Leno, “The admissions officer said I wasn’t what they wanted. But I sat outside his
office 12 hours a day until he said he’d let me in if I went to summer school.”

Nelson Rockefeller – Former Vice President of the United States

Rockefeller had a learning disability that made reading difficult for him. He preferred to use big colorful
charts instead of text when he worked on plans with his colleagues. He also had an amazing energy level.

Bruce Jenner – 1976 Gold Medallist in the Olympic Decathlon

Jenner had a learning disability. He often daydreamed in class and teachers labeled him as lazy. Because of his
difficulties, he feared school, teachers and reading. His biggest fear was being called on to read in front of
the class and looking stupid. As a result, he was nervous every day at school. A turning point in his life came
about when his fifth grade teacher did a fun running activity with the students. Jenner had the fastest time in
the whole school. That was the first time that he had accomplished anything at school. As a result, he gained
some respect from others and he realized that he had a chance in life.

Whoopi Goldberg – Actress

“When I was a kid they didn't call it dyslexia. They called it... you know, you were slow, or you were retarded, or
whatever.” Goldberg learned to read with the help of a teacher who ran a specialized program.

William “Bill” Hewlett – Co-founder of Hewlett-Packard Company

Hewlett was very good at science in school but he had a hard time with the other subjects because of a
learning disability. The learning disability forced Hewlett to memorize everything in school. As a result, he
began to memorize information about anything and everything outside of school as well. One of his colleagues
said that Hewlett was more knowledgeable than any other person that he had ever met.

Tommy Hilfiger – Fashion Designer

He said that he performed poorly in school and was perceived as stupid. He had to concentrate very hard in
order to read left to right or his eyes would wander to the bottom of the page. To cover up for his inability to
read, he became a class clown. Today, he still has problems with reading.

General H. Norman Swarzkopf - Commander, Operation Desert Storm

As a child, Swarzkopf often got comments on his report card that said he was capable of doing better work or
that he was not working to his potential. His life changed when he went overseas and “was more interested in
learning by seeing, and feeling, and hearing, and experiencing, and that sort of thing. I came back to the United
States and was a straight A student from there on. I was never a bookworm, I was always interested more in
being well-rounded, rather than being viewed as perhaps an egghead.”

Princess Beatrice – Daughter of the Duke of York and Duchess of York

Princess Beatrice has Dyslexia and continues to receive extra help in literacy. Her mother admitted that she
had a problem with reading as well when she was young.

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 What is a Cognitive Impairment?
Cognitive delays differ from learning disabilities in that all areas of development are
affected. Cognitive impairments range from very mild (slow learners) to severe
(dependent upon others for all care and support.) Students with such cognitive delays
tend to need additional repetition to learn new skills and knowledge, but are capable of
learning and participating in general education classes with accommodations and
modifications. Students with cognitive impairments may also have other conditions such
as attention deficit or speech disorders. For more information, go to:
[Link] or [Link]

What is an Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a lifelong developmental disability that typically
appears during the first three years of life. The result of a neurological disorder that
affects the functioning of the brain, ASD impacts the normal development of the brain
in the areas of social interaction and communication skills. Children and adults with
autism spectrum disorder typically have difficulties in verbal and non-verbal
communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities. People with ASD range
from extremely capable to significantly impaired, causing it to be known as a “spectrum
disorder”. Autism spectrum disorder affects an estimated 1 in 166 births (Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention, 2003). This means that as many as 1.5 million Americans
today are believed to have some form of autism spectrum disorder. For more
information, go to: [Link]

What are Physical or Sensory Challenges?

A wide range of other physical, sensory and or health impairments can impact student
learning. Hearing and vision impairments, regardless of the cause, require staff to make
accommodations and modifications to compensate for the sensory deficit. Health
issues, such as epilepsy may interfere with education. Students with physical
impairments such as paralysis, cerebral palsy, or loss of limb will have a wide range of
abilities and needs for accommodations and modifications. For more information on
hearing impairments, go to: [Link] For more about
vision impairments: [Link] For other topics
related to health or physical impairments and disabilities, search A to Z at
[Link]

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 What are Emotional Impairments?
Students with emotional impairments may look very typical but behave or interact with
others differently. Some of the characteristics and behaviors seen in children who
have emotional disturbances include:

• Hyperactivity (short attention span, impulsiveness);

• Aggression/self-injurious behavior (acting out, fighting);
• Withdrawal (failure to initiate interaction with others; retreat from exchanges
of social interaction, excessive fear or anxiety);
• Immaturity (inappropriate crying, temper tantrums, poor coping skills); and
• Learning difficulties (academically performing below grade level).

Children with the most serious emotional disturbances may exhibit distorted thinking,
excessive anxiety, bizarre motor acts, and abnormal mood swings. Some are identified
as children who have a severe psychosis, bi-polar disorder, or schizophrenia.

Many children who do not have emotional disturbances may display some of these same
behaviors at various times during their development. However, when children have an
emotional disturbance, these behaviors continue over long periods of time. Their
behavior thus signals that they are not coping with their environment or peers. For
more information, go to: [Link]

What are Speech and Language Impairments?

Many students experience a delay in receptive (understanding language) and/or
expressive (using language) communication. While some delays are easy to notice, such
as a lisp, stuttering, or difficulty saying words clearly (articulation) other language
delays are less obvious. Most critical for school performance is vocabulary development
- all the words the student understands and can use. Vocabulary is highly predictive of
school success. Go to: [Link] for more information.

What is an Early Childhood Developmental Delay?

Children under the age of eight may be diagnosed with an Early Childhood Developmental
Delay. This general category defines children with significant delays and is often used
when the child is so young that a clear understanding of the child’s disability does not
exist.

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 August 2006
Please direct questions to:
Tami Pichla (989) 658-8261
Jackie Gracey (989) 658-8261
Karen Currie (989) 269-9216
Printed by the Huron Intermediate School District

41
 References

Accommodations and modifications [Link]

Doyle, M.B. (2002). The guide to the inclusive classroom: Working as a

team. Clochester, Vermont: Paul Brooks Publishing Co.

Famous people with learning disabilities [Link]

Friend, M. and Bursuck, W. (2002). Including students with special needs: A

practical guide for classroom teachers. Boston: Allyn and Bacon.

Hammeken, P. (1997). Inclusion, 450 strategies for success.

Minnetonka, Minnesota: Peytral Publications

Hammeken, P. (2003). Inclusion: An essential guide for the

paraprofessional. . Minnetonka, Minnesota: Peytral Publications

Heacox, D. Ed. D. (2002). Differentiating instruction in the regular

classoom: How to reach and teach all learners, grades 3-12.
Minneapolis: Free Spirit Publishing Inc.

Learning Disabilities Online [Link]

Learning Disabilities Organization [Link]

Michigan Department of Education [Link]

STatewide Autism Resources & Training Center (START), Grand Valley

State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan.

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Reprint with permission of Huron Intermediate School District
(989) 269-9216
and
Ubly Community Schools
(989) 658-8202

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