Difference Between High School and College

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Legal Differences

Services are provided under IDEA or Section 504, Subpart D.
An IEP, a written legal document which lays out a student’s special education instruction, supports, and services, is mandated and followed.
The student has a right to an education paid for by the state; therefore, special programs are created to meet their needs.
Parents are actively involved in planning and decision-making.
Accommodations are provided to ensure the success of the student.
School districts are responsible for identifying and evaluating disability at no cost to the student or their family.
Parents sign documents for the student.
School personnel may speak freely with parents without the student’s consent.

Services are provided under ADA/ADAA and Section 504, Subpart E.
There is no IEP at the college level. Rather, a plan is developed which lays out a student’s accommodations.
A college education is a privilege instead of a right; therefore, special programs are not required.
Students are considered to be adults and must advocate for themselves.
Accommodations are provided to ensure equal access. Success is the responsibility of the student.
The student must self-identify and provide appropriate and current documentation based on the college’s requirements. The college is not responsible for the cost of evaluations.
Students sign for themselves.
The Buckley Amendment/FERPA requires the student give written permission for school personnel to speak with parents, faculty, funding sources, etc.

School personnel have the responsibility to trying to shape inappropriate behaviors.
Shortened and/or modified assignments and exams are often given as accommodations.
Teachers are asked to adapt their teaching mode to the student.
Students may be scheduled with resource personnel on a regular basis or come to the resource room as needed.
Students’ studies are directed by special education teachers.
Special educators inform instructors about a student’s accommodation needs.
Deaf/Hard of Hearing students have interpreting services provided.

Students are responsible for their own behavior and inappropriate behavior will be addressed according to the student handbook.
All students are expected to complete the same tests and assignments.
Faculty have academic freedom in regard to the selection, delivery, and evaluation of course content.
Students must initiate requests for access and accommodations.
Students must have skills to organize, plan and study independently.
After accommodations have been determined, the student speaks with their instructors about their accommodation needs.
Deaf/Hard of Hearing students must request interpreting services.

Transportation and mobility assistance are provided by the school.
Paraprofessionals may be provided, to assist with a student’s personal care, individualized instruction and/or behavior management.
Assistive technology is used minimally.

Transportation and mobility are the responsibility of the student.
The college is not responsible for providing assistance with personal care, individualized instruction, and/or behavioral management.
Assistive technology is available for student use and encouraged to increase access and independence.