What should be in the IEP for a twice-exceptional (2e) student?

Twice-exceptional students may qualify for special education when their disability adversely impacts their educational performance, even when that student demonstrates above average or superior cognitive ability. Parents of 2e children can still pursue an IEP or 504 accommodations for nonacademic areas. Depending on their profile, their school, and their district, some students may easily get an IEP while others may more easily get 504 accommodations.

Common accommodations and services for 2e students may include the following:

• More time on tests for students with processing differences or dyslexia
• Assistive technology, such as a writing device for a child with dysgraphia or a dictation device for a child who may struggle with speech
• Options to complete assignments without a verbal component
• Counseling for students who may have anxiety or depression that is impacting their work
• An adult at school the student can access outside of class
• A quiet place to complete work
• Higher-grade assignments in classes where the student excels
• Access to advanced remote learning if their school cannot provide them with adequate instruction

Education advocates recommend that if the resources are available, parents should work with the child’s case manager and/or inclusion specialist to designate support, as well as someone from a gifted and talented program to handle the advanced areas.

For more information, see our full article about supporting 2e students in school.