Academic Accommodations
St. Michael’s High School is committed to educating the whole person intellectually, spiritually, and morally while maintaining a rigorous, college-preparatory academic program. We recognize that some students may benefit from reasonable academic or medical accommodation, and we strive to support those needs within the scope of our mission, resources, and instructional model.
As a private, independent Catholic school, St. Michael’s High School operates outside the mandates of federal public education laws such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. While we are not legally required to implement IEPs or public-school 504 Plans, we may provide reasonable accommodation at our discretion when feasible and appropriate.
Our Approach
- Accommodations support access, not curriculum modification
- Academic standards, grading, and graduation requirements remain unchanged
- Support must be sustainable, equitable, and feasible within existing classrooms
- All accommodations must align with the school’s Catholic mission and community values
Private School Plan (PSP)
- A Private School Plan (PSP) may be developed for students with documented learning exceptionalities who may benefit from basic academic accommodations.
- Examples of possible PSP accommodations (case by case):
- Extended time (up to 50%) on tests, quizzes, or assignments
- Preferential seating
- Reduced distraction or small-group testing (when feasible)
- Access to notes, audiobooks, or text-to-speech tools (with approval)
- Clarification or rephrasing of instructions
- PSPs are reviewed annually. St. Michael’s does not modify curriculum.
Section 504 Plans
- Students with documented medical or mental health conditions may qualify for school-based 504 accommodations.
- Examples of possible 504 accommodations:
- Access to medical devices (self-managed)
- Non-disruptive snacks or water (with physician documentation)
- Short breaks or counselor access
- Modified testing environment or extended time (up to 50%)
- Limited flexibility in Physical Education participation based on medical need
- 504 Plans are reviewed every three years with updated documentation.
Participation & Attendance
- Students with PSPs or 504 Plans are expected to meet all attendance, participation, and academic expectations.
- Physical Education and World Language courses require active participation
- Accommodations do not excuse chronic absences or tardiness
- Extended time must be used responsibly
- Failure to meet expectations may result in review or adjustment of accommodations.
Getting Started
Families requesting accommodations must submit the 504/PSP Intake Form and supporting documentation to the Academic Office. All requests are reviewed on an individual basis.
For questions, please contact the Academic Office.