IEP Modifications in Oklahoma: Accommodations vs. Modifications
What is the difference between accommodations and modifications in a Oklahoma IEP?
Oklahoma distinguishes modifications from accommodations. Modifications change the educational expectations for the student compared to peers without disabilities. In a special education setting, modifications may include alternative or supplemental curriculum aligned to state standards and limiting the number of standards taught. In the general education setting, modifications include changes to the general education curriculum itself — fewer concepts to master, part of grade-level content, different test questions, or material at a different reading level. A student may not be removed from regular classes solely because of needed modifications. Modification decisions must be individualized through the IEP team process and documented in the IEP.
What Oklahoma Requires
Modifications change educational expectations (content, rigor, or breadth) for the student compared to peers without disabilities; accommodations do not (Oklahoma Special Education Policies & Procedures 2024, Ch. 6, Sec. 3.G.vi)
In a special education setting, modifications may include alternative/supplemental curriculum aligned to state standards and limiting number of standards taught (Oklahoma Special Education Policies & Procedures 2024, Ch. 6, Sec. 3.G.vi)
In the general education setting, modifications include: fewer concepts to master, partial completion of grade-level content, different test questions, or material at a different reading level (Oklahoma Special Education Policies & Procedures 2024, Ch. 6, Sec. 3.G.vi)
A child with a disability may not be removed from age-appropriate regular classrooms solely because of needed modifications (34 C.F.R. § 300.116(d) and (e))
IEP must include a statement of program modifications or supports for school personnel to enable the child to advance toward goals, participate in general education, and be educated with nondisabled children (34 C.F.R. § 300.320(a)(4))