How to Correctly Implement Preferential Seating Accommodations in IEP

In my professional experience, the best way to implement the accommodation is to allow the student in question to determine his own best placement in the classroom. It doesn't necessarily have to be seated in the front row right in front of the teacher. If the student wears a hearing aid and the teacher teaches next to the HVAC system, then that placement would quite possibly be the worst placement.

If working with a young student, make the decision for him. If teaching an older student who is responsible and eager to learn, let him make his own decision (include a disclaimer that you'll relocate him as soon as distractions occur.)

Students with HL need specific accommodations (unobstructed view of speaker's face, sound systems, peer-buddy within reach, etc). Allowing the student to pick his own placement will alleviate much of this and make your life much easier. After all, it's best (and easiest) when the student holds himself accountable for his own learning.

Email me if you have  any further questions or would like to discuss this in-depth.