Learning Services

Students on an HB Plan must be able to manage the fast pace and demanding curriculum with basic accommodations in place. Accommodations delivered via HB Plans are extended only to class coursework in grades seven through 12.

A student whose needs would warrant extensive modifications and support beyond the capabilities of Hathaway Brown are encouraged to pursue options through their public or private school which offers Individualized Educational Plans. 

To be fair and consistent in granting accommodations, HB follows specific guidelines when accepting documentation. These guidelines are based on industry standards, as well as those set forth by formal test administrators such as ACT and The College Board, which administers PSAT, SAT, and AP.

A written report detailing a comprehensive educational evaluation conducted by a qualified professional is necessary to receive classroom and testing accommodations. Reports must be current (within the past three years) and include the following:

• The student’s demographic and background information
• All relevant developmental, medical and academic history
• Assessment of the major domains of cognitive and academic functioning, including a list of tests administered, standard scores, and interpretation of the results
• A concise summary of the full diagnostic interview
• A clear diagnosis and statement of the disability (including DSM-5 code)
• A discussion of how the disability limits the student’s academic function
• Recommendations and rationale for specific academic accommodations

ADD/ADHD and psychiatric disorders are not learning disabilities, but they can affect learning. In order to receive accommodations, the evaluation must show the assessments and results used in determining a diagnosis and how the disability specifically negatively impacts the student’s academic skills. A letter or prescription from a treating physician is insufficient documentation.

For testing accommodations on the ACT or The College Board (PSAT, SAT, AP) exams, a separate application must be made to those test administrators. For College Board tests, application is typically made near the end of ninth grade. For ACT, application must be made approximately two months prior to the first time the student takes the test, typically during the first semester of 11th grade.