NBPS DCAP 

All students are eligible for the supports and accommodations outlined in the DCAP, and all general educators are required to provide these during instruction. State Testing may limit the use of some accommodations during MCAS or ACCESS testing, but this should NOT limit student access to accommodations and supports during instruction.

The DCAP is intended to be used by any student, especially those without an identified disability. Students on Individual Education Plans or plans written to comply with Section 504 of the Americans with Disabilities Act may also access the DCAP, but their accommodations should be documented on their individual plans (IEPs or 504s). Students who receive accommodations may also qualify for modifications and, if so, those will be described in their IEP.

Students who are identified as English Learners (EL) or Formerly English Learners (FEL) are ‘general education’ students and are eligible for all accommodations listed in this plan and based on their level or status may also be eligible for other accommodations; refer to the most recent DESE Accessibility and Accommodations Manual and the New Bedford Public Schools English Learner Education Department for guidance specific to meeting the needs of English Learners. The educational program should not be modified for students with EL or FEL status. Expectations must remain at grade level, but accommodations and interventions should be provided to eliminate barriers and provide equitable access to learning grade level and subject specific content.

The New Bedford Public Schools provides a comprehensive Mentoring and Induction Program to new educators to promote high quality teaching and learning in every classroom, and including an introduction to the DCAP.

The New Bedford Public Schools promotes Family Engagement at all levels, using a tiered approach that encourages all staff to involve all stakeholders in students’ lives.