Accommodations in a Structured Environment
Students with learning differences can thrive in military schools—but not all schools handle accommodations equally. Understanding your options helps families find supportive environments.
IEP vs. 504: A Quick Refresher
IEP (Individualized Education Program)
- Federal law requiring public schools to provide specialized instruction
- Includes specific goals and services
- Regular progress monitoring
- Enforceable by law in public schools
504 Plan
- Provides accommodations for disabilities affecting major life activities
- Less comprehensive than IEP
- Ensures equal access, not specialized instruction
- Applies to any school receiving federal funding
Private Military Schools and Federal Law
Key Point: Private schools are not required to provide IEP services.
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) applies to public schools. Private military schools may:
- Voluntarily honor IEP accommodations
- Offer their own accommodation plans
- Provide some but not all requested services
- Decline to enroll students requiring extensive support
504 plans may have more applicability if the private school receives federal funds, but enforcement is different than in public schools.
What Military Schools Typically Offer
Common Accommodations Available
- Extended time on tests
- Preferential seating
- Written instructions in addition to verbal
- Use of calculators or word processors
- Reduced homework load
- Frequent check-ins with advisors
- Access to tutoring or study skills support
Less Commonly Available
- One-on-one aides
- Significant curriculum modification
- Specialized therapies (OT, speech)
- Self-contained special education classrooms
- Behavioral intervention specialists
Questions to Ask Admissions
- Do you accept students with IEPs or 504 plans?
- What accommodations can you provide?
- Who coordinates learning support services?
- What is your student-to-counselor ratio?
- Do you have trained learning specialists on staff?
- How do you communicate with parents about progress?
- What would make a student a poor fit for your support capabilities?
Evaluating School Fit
Green Flags
- Dedicated learning center or resource room
- Trained learning specialists on staff
- Willingness to discuss specific accommodations
- Track record with similar students
- Small class sizes (easier to individualize)
- Structured environment (beneficial for many learning differences)
Red Flags
- Vague answers about support services
- No learning specialist or counselor
- "We treat everyone the same" philosophy
- Unwillingness to discuss specific needs
- History of students with learning differences leaving
Public Military Schools
Public military academies and magnet schools ARE required to provide IEP services. These include:
- Public military magnet schools
- State-sponsored military academies
- Schools operating within public school districts
If IDEA protections are important, focus on public options.
How Structure Helps
Many students with learning differences thrive in military schools because:
- Consistent routine reduces anxiety and cognitive load
- Clear expectations eliminate ambiguity
- Supervised study time ensures homework completion
- Physical activity improves focus and reduces hyperactivity
- Small classes allow individualized attention
- Immediate feedback helps with executive function challenges
ADHD and Military School
Students with ADHD are a significant population at military schools. The structured environment often provides:
- External organization systems
- Reduced distractions
- Consistent schedules
- Physical outlets
- Clear consequences and rewards
However, some ADHD students struggle with the rigid demands. Know your child.
Preparing for Enrollment
If your student has an IEP or 504:
- Request a meeting with the learning support coordinator before enrollment
- Share documentation including psychoeducational evaluations
- Create a written plan outlining which accommodations the school will provide
- Establish communication protocols with the learning specialist
- Monitor early weeks closely for adjustment issues
Medication Considerations
If your student takes medication for learning differences or ADHD:
- Understand the school's medication management policies
- Ensure prescriptions can be filled or mailed
- Discuss medication timing with school nurse
- Know the policy for medication changes or adjustments
Next Steps
Browse our directory to find schools with learning support programs. Review enrollment logistics to discuss your student's specific needs before applying.