By Shawn Clark, Director of Curriculum & Instruction
Every child learns differently—and that’s something we embrace here at New Way. One of the strongest foundations of effective special education is the use of accommodations and modifications that support students in accessing learning in ways that work best for them.
Accommodations help students engage with classroom material. This could mean using a screen reader, voice-to-text tools, or enlarged text.
Modifications adjust what a student is asked to do, such as simplifying a reading passage to match their Lexile level or reducing the number of math problems on an assignment.
While these supports are essential, New Way takes an even more proactive approach. Rather than waiting for a student to struggle or relying solely on traditional instructional methods, our teachers design lessons with all learners in mind from the very beginning. Our teachers and staff follow the philosophy of if students struggle to learn the way we teach, then we teach the way they learn.
During everyday instruction, our teachers intentionally plan lessons that meet students where they are. We incorporate universal accommodations into each classroom so all students benefit, not just those with documented needs. This includes:
- Executive functioning support
- Language and communication guidance
- Social and classroom-awareness strategies
- Adjusted reading requirements
- Writing support and scaffolded outlines
- Math tools and flexible problem-solving approaches
- Testing accommodations and extended time
- Clear, direct instructions free from unnecessary abstract language
Our students also benefit from 1:1 Chromebooks equipped with screen readers, voice-to-text software, and other assistive tools that foster independence. Teachers regularly provide guided note-taking using Thinking Maps and two-column outlines and offer read-aloud options when appropriate.
For writing assignments, teachers partner closely with students—brainstorming together, offering multisensory graphic organizers, and helping structure ideas step-by-step. In math, students are taught how and when to use math tables and advanced calculators, empowering them to approach problem-solving with confidence.
One of the most reassuring aspects for families is our ability to make instructional or environmental changes immediately—without waiting for an IEP meeting. If a student needs something new or different, teachers have the flexibility and expertise to adjust right away. This responsiveness creates a learning environment that feels safe, supportive, and personalized.
Considering the whole child guides every decision we make at New Way. Each learner has a unique profile of strengths, challenges, interests, and needs. By embedding universal accommodations and cultivating flexible classrooms, we strive to level the playing field before students even step on campus each morning.
This approach is encouraging for parents, empowering for teachers, and—most importantly—validating for students. When children feel understood and supported, they grow. And at New Way, that growth is our purpose.
