I am a 59 year old woman starting my 3rd year as a full time student in a seminary Masters of Divinity program.  I'm hoping to be able to graduate after 4 years. 

I also have primary physical custody of my 15 year old grandson after a prolonged and painful custody battle who has been diagnosed with mood d/o nos-but likely ADHD vs Bipolar and has stopped taking his meds (most recently Depakote 1500mg qd and Geodon 60mg qd).  Needless to say there are behavior issues with him and frequent conflict. 

I have been on various meds including Adderall in increasing doses up to XR 40mg qd and Adderall 20mg at 2pm; dexedrine spansule 30mg bid; and now Concerta 72mg qd.  Also on Wellbutrin 200mg bid and klonopin 1mg bid and prn.  Besides med mgmt I also have weekly sessions with a therapist.

I have continued to struggle with symptoms that are sometimes severe and have been at times disabling, and have difficulty completing reading assignments and completing papers on time.  So far I have only had to repeat one course but have an F in a spring course because I could not complete all the assignments.   Even so, I have a 2.7 GPA.

The Dean of Students wonders that any accommodation may give me an advantage over other students or will enable me to be late with all my assignments which would not promote positive patterns of behavior including time management and organizational skills.

What can I tell him and what accommodations could I reasonably request?

How much can I expect from medication?  What other meds can I try?  The Concerta does not seem to be any better than the Adderall.  In fact, I'm beginning to think that the Adderall was more helpful now that I've tried others.  The dexedrine actually seemed to make the symptoms worse, so that trial did not last long. 

I realize this is a lot to ask and leaks over into multiple areas, but any help would be greatly appreciated!

Thank you,

Kate