Most teachers are responsive to the pedagogical needs of all students. However, some students with disabilities have unique educational challenges. Although teachers may receive direction regarding academic adjustments and accommodations through Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and Section 504 plans for specific students, it is good to be thinking about the broad range of abilities, disabilities, and other characteristics of potential students as you design your curriculum.
Students with disabilities will need to develop self-advocacy skills to succeed in college, careers, and other adult activities. By the end of high school, students with disabilities should be the best source of information regarding their individual learning styles, and possible accommodations such as adaptive technology, alternate formats, and test-taking adjustments. Allowing and encouraging students to privately discuss their needs will reinforce the development of self-advocacy skills as well as provide you with useful information.