In the world of special education, it’s not uncommon to see academic rigor removed from students who don’t appear to be thriving in traditional learning environments. However, as an occupational therapist working in a high school setting, I firmly believe that students should stay on an academic track for as long as possible to support their cognitive and personal development. Too often, the assumption is made that if a student isn’t succeeding, the academics must be the issue. But what if the problem isn’t the academics themselves, but rather the way they are being taught?
I have seen firsthand the transformational power of adaptation and modification in education. Many students who were once slated for “life skills” classrooms have gone on to earn Regents diplomas in New York State. Their success wasn’t because the material became easier but because it was presented in a way that aligned with their learning styles, needs, and abilities. It’s not a question of whether they can handle academics, but rather, how we as educators, therapists, and parents can ensure they are taught in a way they can understand and engage with.
The Role of Adaptation in Academic Success
Adaptation doesn’t mean lowering expectations—it means changing the way information is delivered. Research supports the idea that differentiated instruction, scaffolding, and multisensory learning approaches can significantly impact student success. A study published in Exceptional Children found that students with learning disabilities perform significantly better when taught using evidence-based instructional strategies such as explicit instruction, visual supports, and hands-on learning experiences.
As an occupational therapist, my role extends beyond direct interventions; I collaborate with teachers to modify curriculum and classroom environments to make learning more accessible. Whether it’s breaking down complex tasks, providing alternative ways to demonstrate knowledge, or incorporating movement into lessons, there are countless ways to ensure students remain engaged in academic learning.
The Critical Role of Occupational and Speech Therapy in Academic Success
Occupational therapy (OT) plays a key role in academic success by helping students overcome functional cognitive deficits that impact learning. Research in The American Journal of Occupational Therapy highlights how OT interventions improve executive functioning, self-regulation, and fine motor skills, all of which are essential for academic engagement. Occupational therapists assist in adapting learning materials, improving sensory integration for better focus, and developing strategies to enhance working memory and task management. By embedding these supports into the educational process, OT ensures students can access and retain academic content effectively.
Similarly, speech therapy is crucial in addressing comprehension and communication challenges in the classroom. A study from Language, Speech, and Hearing Services in Schools demonstrates that students with speech and language impairments show greater academic success when they receive targeted interventions that support vocabulary development, reading comprehension, and expressive language. Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) collaborate with educators to implement strategies that improve students’ ability to understand instructions, express their thoughts clearly, and engage in classroom discussions. Without strong communication skills, students may struggle with literacy and overall academic achievement, making the work of SLPs invaluable.
The Importance of a Growth Mindset in Educators and Collaboration Among Professionals
One of the most critical components of keeping students on an academic track is having educators who are open to new ideas and instructional strategies. The best teachers are those who not only understand their subject matter but are also willing to explore innovative ways to deliver it. However, the key to true student success lies in collaboration between special educators and related service professionals, such as occupational therapists and speech-language pathologists.
A report from the National Center for Learning Disabilities highlights that students with disabilities are more likely to succeed academically when general education teachers receive training in differentiated instruction and inclusive practices. This underscores the importance of professional development and interdisciplinary collaboration within schools. When educators, OTs, and SLPs work together, students receive a well-rounded approach that supports both their academic and functional learning needs.
The Science of Learning: The Brain Develops into the Late 20s
Another crucial factor to consider when making academic placement decisions is brain development. Neuroscience tells us that the human brain continues to develop well into the late 20s, particularly in areas responsible for executive functioning, problem-solving, and higher-order thinking. This means that even students with significant delays still have the capacity to learn, grow, and develop academically. Instead of removing academic content from their education, we should be asking: How can we make this content accessible to them?
The Long-Term Impact of an Academic Foundation
While not every student will pursue college, academic learning extends beyond preparing for higher education. Literacy, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills are essential for daily living, employment, and overall independence. A solid academic foundation can enhance self-esteem, open doors to vocational training opportunities, and improve lifelong adaptability.
As CSE (Committee on Special Education) meetings and program placements are discussed, I encourage parents and educators to challenge the notion that a student’s learning potential is fixed. Rather than focusing on limitations, let’s focus on possibilities. How can we adapt, modify, and scaffold learning experiences so that all students have the opportunity to engage with the same curriculum as their peers?
Conclusion: Keep the Focus on Learning
Academics are not just for students on a college track. Every child, regardless of ability level, deserves access to knowledge and the opportunity to learn alongside their peers. If a student is struggling, the answer isn’t to remove them from academic learning—it’s to find new ways to teach them. Reading, writing, and learning are essential life skills, and with the right supports, every student can grow. It's with these tools that our children and our students, can open doors to bigger and better opportunities.
So to parents and educators: don’t give up on academics. Instead, ask how education can be adapted to best serve the student. When we shift our focus from what students can’t do to how we can teach them effectively, we unlock their true potential and give them the opportunity to thrive. Collaboration among educators, occupational therapists, and speech-language pathologists ensures that all students receive the comprehensive support they need to succeed.