Accommodating Students with Disabilities with Specially Designed Instruction in Content Area Classrooms

Session Description

This session will explore practical strategies for accommodating students with disabilities in content-area classrooms through the use of Specially Designed Instruction (SDI). Participants will learn how SDI ensures equitable access to the curriculum by tailoring instruction to meet students’ unique needs without diluting academic rigor. The session will highlight the differences between accommodations, modifications, and interventions, providing real-world examples for implementing these supports in Catholic schools. Through engaging activities and case studies, attendees will gain insight into selecting appropriate strategies based on individual student profiles. Emphasizing inclusion within faith-based education, the session aligns with the mission to create meaningful learning opportunities for all students, upholding their dignity and potential in diverse classrooms.

Objectives

  1. Define and differentiate between accommodations, modifications, and interventions, and understand their role in implementing SDI within content-area classrooms.
  2. Analyze case studies to identify tailored supports for students with disabilities, ensuring access to the general curriculum while meeting individual needs.
  3. Develop actionable strategies for incorporating SDI into Catholic schools to foster an inclusive learning environment.

Presented by:

Michael Faggella-Luby, PhD

Michael Faggella-Luby, PhD