San Jose - Post Report Question and Answers
What accommodations do schools make for special-needs kids?
If you have a child with special needs, particularly one requiring an IEP (referred to as an SLP at CDS), it’s important to carefully consider the level of support and follow-through the school is able to provide. Over several years, our personal experience has involved ongoing challenges with administrative consistency and communication. For example, there were instances where records were misplaced or documentation was not updated following annual meetings. At times, this led to delays in implementing agreed-upon accommodations, which had an impact on my son’s academic progress. Resolving these issues often required sustained follow-up on our part. We also experienced moments where communication could have been clearer. In one case, accommodations discussed during a meeting appeared to be adjusted afterward without direct notification, and we only became aware through a teacher reaching out. Additionally, a recent change in communication protocols limited the flow of information between the school and our privately hired coach, which made it more difficult for us to stay informed about our son’s day-to-day support. Updates on this shift were not immediately communicated, and it took some time to fully understand how it would affect our involvement. As a result, we have found it necessary to remain very actively engaged to ensure that agreed supports are in place and functioning as intended. While the school presents plans and intentions during meetings, consistent implementation has, in our experience, required ongoing monitoring and advocacy. For families navigating special education in the San José area, I would strongly encourage considering additional external support. Working with a private coach, such as Ms. Carolina Gonzalez, has been invaluable for us. Her guidance and consistent communication have helped us better navigate the system and advocate effectively for our child. - Mar 2026
I have heard from colleagues with special-needs kids that the accommodations aren't robust. - May 2024
Country Day is reportedly very good at this. - Sep 2020
CDS has some accomodation, not sure about the rest. - Jul 2018
Our Montessori appears to do well with this. I have heard mixed things about the elementary and high schools. - Apr 2014
Only SEAS & AIS can accommodate mild special needs. Please contact the schools before arriving. - Jun 2013
AIS has accomodations for special needs kids. - Aug 2011
