What is a DCAP?

What is a DCAP?

A systematic plan for the general education program to assist principals in ensuring that all efforts have been made to meet students' needs in the general education program.

A DCAP includes:

  • Assistance to general education teachers such as professional development

  • Support services that are available through the general education program, including academic supports and social-emotional supports.

  • Direct and systematic instruction in reading for all students.

  • Encourages teacher collaboration and

  • Encourages caregiver involvement in their children's education.


Source: https://www.doe.mass.edu/sped/cspd/pr-role.pps

Why do we have a District Curriculum Accommodation Plan (DCAP)?

It is the law.

District Curriculum Accommodation Plan, Ch. 71, Section 38Q1/2 (DCAP)

A school district shall adopt and implement a Curriculum Accommodation Plan to assist principals in ensuring that all efforts have been made to meet students’ needs in general education. The plan shall be designed to assist the general classroom teacher in analyzing and accommodating diverse learning styles of all children in the general classroom and in providing appropriate services and supports within the general education program 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 and collaboration and parental involvement. School Councils and District Accommodation Plan, Ch. 71 Section 59C Amended Language The School Council, including the school principal, shall meet generally and shall assist in the identification of the educational needs of all students attending the school, shall make recommendations to the principal for the development, implementation and assessment of the Curriculum Accommodation Plan required pursuant to Section 38Q1/2, shall assist in the review of the annual school budget and in the formulation of a School Improvement Plan. Purpose of DCAP general Changes in the Massachusetts Special Education Laws require school districts to implement Curriculum Accommodation Plans (CAP) to help ensure all efforts have been made to meet students’ needs in general education.