IEP Modifications in Kansas: Accommodations vs. Modifications
What is the difference between accommodations and modifications in a Kansas IEP?
In Kansas, modifications are changes to the curriculum content, standards, or performance expectations for a student with a disability — distinct from accommodations that maintain learning standards while providing access supports. The IEP must document all program modifications under K.A.R. 91-40-17(a)(4), including any supports for school personnel. When modifications are used, the IEP must also explain the extent to which the student will not participate with nondisabled peers in the regular class and nonacademic activities (K.A.R. 91-40-17(a)(5); 34 CFR 300.320(a)(5)). Students with the most significant cognitive disabilities who require extensive modifications to the general curriculum may take the Kansas Alternate Assessment (KAA). Least restrictive environment requirements under K.A.R. 91-40-20 require that placement decisions always consider the LRE and document the justification for any removal from the regular education environment. Kansas law does not prescribe specific alternative diplomas tied to modified standards in the same way as some states, but students who complete their IEP requirements may receive a regular diploma if they meet district graduation requirements.
What Kansas Requires
The IEP must document all program modifications and supports for school personnel (K.A.R. 91-40-17(a)(4); 34 CFR 300.320(a)(4)).
The IEP must explain the extent to which the student will not participate with nondisabled peers in regular classes and extracurricular and nonacademic activities (K.A.R. 91-40-17(a)(5); 34 CFR 300.320(a)(5)).
Students with the most significant cognitive disabilities taking the KAA may have modified curriculum expectations; the IEP must justify this placement (K.A.R. 91-40-17(a)(6)).
The IEP team must consider LRE and document justification for any removal from the general education environment before recommending significant curriculum modifications (K.A.R. 91-40-20).
Modifications must be individually appropriate and justified based on the student's needs — the goal is always to provide access to the general curriculum to the maximum extent appropriate (K.A.R. 91-40-20; 34 CFR 300.114).
Key Timelines
Modifications must be reviewed at least annually as part of the IEP review (K.A.R. 91-40-18(a)).
The IEP team must consider annually whether modifications remain appropriate and whether the student can increase participation in the general curriculum (K.A.R. 91-40-18(a)).