Have you considered ESY services for your child?
As we embrace the arrival of spring, it's important to delve into an important educational consideration: What educational opportunities will be available to your child this summer? Have you explored Extended School Year (ESY) services for your child?
Extended School Year (ESY) services are special education and related services provided to students with disabilities beyond the standard school year. These services are tailored to each student's individualized education program (IEP) and come at no additional cost to families.
ESY services are meticulously crafted to address the unique needs of each student, aligning closely with the goals and objectives outlined in their IEP. They are only provided when deemed essential by the IEP team to ensure the provision of Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE). Eligibility for ESY services hinges upon the determination that without them, the student would not receive FAPE during the regular school year.
The decision-making process for ESY services revolves around five guiding questions:
Degree of Impairment: Will the student make meaningful progress on their IEP goals and objectives without ESY services?
Regression and Recoupment: Is there a risk of significant regression and recoupment if ESY services are not provided?
Breakthrough Opportunities: Will the potential acquisition of critical skills be jeopardized over the summer break without ESY services?
Other Circumstances: Do any special or extenuating circumstances necessitate the provision of ESY services to meet FAPE requirements?
Vocational Considerations: For students aged sixteen to twenty with employment or vocational goals in their IEP, will the absence of ESY services impede their access to paid employment opportunities?
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) mandates that public agencies ensure the availability of extended school year services to provide FAPE on an individualized basis, without limitations based on disability categories. Additionally, agencies are prohibited from unilaterally restricting the type, amount, or duration of these services.
In essence, IDEA underscores the importance of providing summer school or ESY services if deemed necessary to meet a child's educational needs or prevent regression due to interruptions in programming and services. (20 U.S.C. ss1412 (a)(1), 34 C.F.R. ss300.309).
By considering the potential benefits of ESY services and engaging with the IEP team, you can unlock valuable opportunities for your child's continued growth and development throughout the summer months.
Let's ensure every child has access to the support they need to thrive academically and beyond! Have questions about how to ensure ESY services for your child?Send me an email—I'd be happy to help!