How does IDEA 97 address assessments for students with disabilities?

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) 97 is crucial for ensuring that students with disabilities have equal access to educational assessments. The act specifically mandates that students with disabilities must receive necessary accommodations during assessments to ensure that their performance can be evaluated fairly and accurately. This might include modifications such as extended time, additional supports, or changes to the testing environment to meet the unique needs of each student.

This approach is vital as it recognizes the importance of understanding a student's abilities rather than their disabilities, and it promotes an equitable assessment process that can inform instruction and support educational progress. By providing these accommodations, IDEA 97 supports the overall goal of including students with disabilities in the educational system and giving them the necessary tools to succeed alongside their peers.