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10 Things You Should Know About Extended School Year (ESY)
ESY services are special education and related services provided beyond the regular school year to help students maintain their skills and prevent regression.
Eligibility: Not all students with IEPs are eligible for ESY. Eligibility is determined by the IEP team based on specific criteria such as regression-recoupment analysis, critical skills, and the nature of the child's disability.
Regression and Recoupment: ESY is often granted when there is a significant risk that a student will lose skills (regression) and take an unusually long time to regain them (recoupment) after a break.
Individualized Services: ESY services are tailored to each student's unique needs. They can include academic support, related services like speech therapy, and other specialized instruction.
No Cost to Parents: ESY services are provided at no cost to the parents. They are part of the free appropriate public education (FAPE) guaranteed under IDEA.
ESY is Not Summer School: ESY is different from regular summer school programs. It is specifically designed to meet the needs of students with disabilities as outlined in their IEPs.
Decision Timing: The IEP team typically discusses and decides on ESY services during the annual IEP review meeting, though it can be revisited as needed.
ESY Goals: The goals of ESY are to maintain essential skills, prevent regression, and ensure that the student can continue to progress in the upcoming school year.
Legal Rights: Parents have the right to request an ESY evaluation for their child. If you disagree with the IEP team's decision, you can seek mediation or due process.
Documentation and Communication: Keep thorough records of your child's progress, and communicate regularly with the IEP team. This documentation can support the need for ESY services.
Remember, ESY is designed to support your child's ongoing educational needs. If you think your child might benefit, don't hesitate to discuss it with your IEP team.
Are you looking for more personalized advice and support for your child's special education journey? Our team of special education advocates are here to help! Reach out to us for tailored guidance, resources, and advocacy to ensure your child gets the support they need. Contact us today and let's make this summer—and the upcoming school year—a time of growth and success for your child.
