What is a District Curriculum Accommodation Plan (DCAP)?

 

Massachusetts General Laws mandate the development and implementation of a District Curriculum Accommodation Plan (DCAP). The purpose of this plan is to provide guidance to school leaders and teachers in making every reasonable effort to meet student needs within general education classrooms. The DCAP is designed to assist educators in recognizing and addressing the diverse learning abilities and needs present in all schools and classrooms. By outlining the accommodations, instructional supports, and strategies available in general education—as well as the procedures for identifying effective interventions for students who are experiencing difficulty—the DCAP aims to strengthen support for the full range of learners in our schools.
 

Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 71, Section 38Q1/2

 

“A school district shall adopt and implement a curriculum accommodation plan to assist principals in ensuring that all efforts have been made to meet the student’s needs in regular education. The plan shall be designed to assist the regular classroom teacher in analyzing and accommodating the diverse learning styles of all children in the regular classroom and in providing appropriate services and support within the regular education programming, including, but not limited to, direct and systematic instruction in reading and provision of services to address the needs of children whose behavior may interfere with learning, or who do not qualify for special education services under chapter 71B. The curriculum accommodation plan shall include provisions encouraging teacher mentoring, collaboration, and parental involvement.”