I cannot find a list of schools that would heavily support students with ADHD. My Junior S has bad ADHD. He was NOT receiving support in school and just recently received a 504 plan. His GPA is low (2.6), his regular time ACT was a 26. He will be taking the ACT with time and a half soon. Can someone point me in the right direction? Thank you
Unless a student is in a special LD college or a special LD program within a college, there is less day to day suppor than a typical HS hast. Accommodation are made for time and a half etc. with documentation.
And you can look for this book (maybe in local library or guidance dept.) to get ideas of the types of programs that are available.
http://www.amazon.com/Guide-Colleges-Students-Learning-Differences/dp/0804125570/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1459394163&sr=8-1&keywords=college+learning+disabilities
Many colleges will offer some level of accommodations, but there are also schools that offer extensive programs (some of these require a separate application and fees). And, there are schools that are completely specialized.
Here are some larger schools with strong LD programs you may want to look into:
American University–Learning Services Program (LSP)
University of Arizona–Strategic Alternative Learning Techniques (SALT) Program
University of Connecticut–Beyond Access (BA) Program
University of Denver–Students in the Learning Effectiveness Program (LEP)
Northeastern University–Learning Disabilities Program (LDP)
If you are looking for smaller schools: Lynn University (Institute for Achievement and Learning), Curry College (PAL).
If you are looking for specialized schools: Landmark College, Beacon College.
A google search for LD/ADHD colleges is also a good resource.
http://www.collegemagazine.com/top-10-accommodating-schools-students-learning-disabilities/
http://blog.prepscholar.com/the-18-best-colleges-for-students-with-learning-disabilities
@twicearound I don’t think the OP’s son will be able to get into the larger schools on your list with his GPA/SAT. Usually you need to qualify for the college before being accepted into one of those programs. School with a similar programs and slightly lower bar to entrance might be Adelphi and Hofstra in Long Island.
Curry College in MA
https://www.curry.edu/programs-and-courses/undergraduate-programs/special-programs/ld-program—pal.html
@scout07, I would first focus on schools that fit your child academically, and THEN explore what kinds of services they have for LDs. (That may take a phone call if the info isn’t on the school’s website.) Some schools, including public colleges/universities, can be very accommodating without appearing on specialty lists.
Yes, many schools with specialized programs are separate applications for the actual school and the respective programs. I stated that as well, but good points being made (more clearly) that your child needs to qualify for the school first. However, I would still review those programs so you get an idea of what is available/what to look for. Also, OP stated child was not receiving support and now qualifies under section 504. Assuming you have an IEP now? Accommodations were not in place for stated GPA and test score, and that will be considered (depending on improvement with accommodations and how big a reach–not all are, like AZ). See what improvements there are with accommodations. Not a lot of time, but do not give up. This is a case where you do want to provide an explanation for grades and test scores, and recs can be important, esp if improvement occurs now. Also, does he have some test prep help for strategies? Extra time is good, but strategies just as important.
I would NOT recommend seeking out schools that don’t have a strong emphasis on LD programs since you said you are seeking “heavy” support. Yes, many schools have services but if they are not a priority, you are likely to end up fighting for accommodations and appropriate support. As you are sending your child to college, it is even more important that they are walking into a very supportive environment.
@twicearound my son was denied an IEP, even though he was 2 standard deviations below where he should be in math. I had to fight for the 504 plan, which gives him extra time and class notes. As far as test prep, yes, he does have a weekly tutor and his score actually went up 52% from his diagnostic. We are hoping for a 28 with the extra time. He is applying the test prep strategies to his school testing now, so his average is slowly rising.
Accommodations were NOT in place for his current GPA and test score. The big question is, can he “explain” his low GPA to college admissions???
Just to throw another kink into this chain, he is also being recruited for soccer. A D1 coach (of a very selective school) reached out to him after seeing him play, when he asked my son for his ACT and GPA, he said he was sorry, that his ACT score was good, but his GPA wasn’t where he needed it to be for him to be admitted, then my son decided to tell him his story of the lack of support and that he now has a 504 plan, and the coach told him that with his ADHD diagnosis, the “bar” is considerably lower and if he could get his GPA to a 3.0 he can get him admitted. This school I am referring to has an admitted GPA of 3.8. I am just not sure if we should be looking at schools that are super reaches. The other side of this is that without soccer, the likelihood of my son getting into a decent school is very low. Our school district really - excuse my french - screwed him. They decided his future, they took it out of his hands by denying him the services he is entitled too.
As far as AZ, my guidance counselor has actually dissuaded us from looking into that school, as he said they talk a good game, but the reality is very different.
I really appreciate everyone’s advice! Thank you!