Student Resources

Students are placed in Academic Support through a variety of means. A newly admitted student with a history of support services or educational testing speaking to the need for this support will automatically be assigned. The individual schedule will be determined once classes are in session. Students may also be placed in Academic Support at the discretion of the Academic Dean’s office

Yes. The Academic Support office is open during all class periods Monday through Saturday. Students already assigned to Academic Support may come during any open period on their schedule.

Yes. Most classroom accommodations at Suffield Academy are determined from a student’s psychoeducational evaluation, which must be completed within three years prior to their arrival at Suffield.

We require full and current neuropsychological or psychological/educational evaluation reports that contains specific tests to support a diagnosis in a specific area. A doctor’s note is not enough documentation for a learning disability or difference. For example, ADHD can be medically diagnosed; however, a medical doctor’s note is not documentation of how it affects a person’s ability to learn, nor does it support the need for accommodations.

According to the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) individuals with disabilities have certain protections including the right to reasonable accommodations and equal access to programs and services. To access these rights, an individual is required to furnish documentation that the disability substantially limits a major life activity, such as learning, when compared to most people.

No. The office can provide a list of qualified evaluators in the area, or will try to assist with finding a qualified evaluator near the student’s home.

Dependent on testing, students may qualify for some or all of the following accommodations:
• Extended time for quizzes, tests, and exams (typically 50%)
• Use of a computer for written expression
• Use of a calculator
• Use of audio books/digital text and/or text-to-speech software
• Copies of class notes, PowerPoints, etc.
• Language waiver (after careful consideration and consultation with the Academic Dean and College Counseling)

Evaluations will sometimes list several other accommodations, modifications, and recommendations for students that are not compatible with Suffield Academy’s educational program. For example, we are not able to support separate testing or a reader for testing. Nor do we modify assignments or due dates for academic work. 

Each student’s program for Academic Support is determined individually. Attendance typically ranges from two to four times a week. Additionally, the program is very fluid, so an individual’s schedule may change throughout the year based on specific needs at a given time.

Sessions are scheduled during a student’s free block. Once these are scheduled, a consistent commitment is expected from the student. However, typically students do not receive any punitive consequences for not attending Academic Support as scheduled. It is hoped that the students will be willing participants in their Academic Support program.

A chart listing all students with accommodations is distributed to all Suffield Academy teachers within the first few weeks of school. The Academic Support staff updates this chart regularly. Our students’ psychoeducational evaluations are kept on file in the Academic Office and Academic Support Office. Faculty, advisors, coaches, and staff who need or want more information may view additional student information in the Academic Support office. No copies or print outs of evaluations are disseminated.

Accommodations are provided by the classroom teacher; however, it is important for a student to communicate with his or her teachers regarding the best way to use an accommodation such as a computer or quiet setting. When necessary, the Academic Support center will assist teachers with the provisions of accommodations

The Academic Support office owns audio versions of many of the works read in the Suffield Academy English Curriculum. Students who need audio versions of textbooks must purchase those independently. There are also assistive technologies like Dragon Naturally Speaking [text-to-speech] and the Livescribe Pen, which students are encouraged to explore. Families are encouraged to learn about them and then purchase their own copy of specific software or hardware for use at home or at school.

Yes. An informational brochure is sent to all Suffield students at the end of the sophomore year that details the process of applying for accommodations for the College Board and ACT. This is a complex process that requires partnership between Suffield and families of students seeking accommodations. 

No. However, when necessary, the Academic Deans or Academic Support staff may schedule a meeting with a student’s teachers to discuss specific diagnostic information or accommodations.