Universal Tools, Designated Supports, and Accommodations¶

The Vermont Comprehensive Assessment Program (VTCAP) assessments in English language arts, math, and science include three types of accessibility features for students: universal tools, designated supports, and accommodations.

Universal tools, designated supports, and accommodations are all accessibility features designed to help students access the assessments to ensure valid and equitable participation.

Universal tools are available to all students. Examples of computer-embedded tools include calculators, notepads, and highlighters. Non-embedded tools include the use of scratch paper and breaks.

Designed supports are available to all students but are assigned by a team of educators familiar with the student. Examples include the use of text-to-speech or translated forms in math or science. Test administration should not be the first time a designed support is introduced to a student.

Accommodations are available to students with an IEP or 504 plan. The accommodation must be documented in the plan as an assessment accommodation. Accommodations are considered adjustments to the testing conditions, test format, or test administration that provide equitable access during assessments for students with disabilities. Test administration should not be the first occasion on which an accommodation is introduced to the student.

A complete list of the universal tools, designated supports, and accommodations available on VTCAP can be found here.