Difference Between High School and College
Legal Differences
High School
- 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.
College
- 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.
Academic Differences
High School
- 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.
College
- 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 disability support services 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.
Other Differences
High School
- 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.
College
- 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.
