As a Special Education Director, ensuring that our students receive the necessary support year-round is a priority. One critical aspect of this is understanding the Extended School Year (ESY) services available in Connecticut. These services are designed to provide continuity in education for students who need it most.
The need for ESY services must be reviewed annually by the Planning and Placement Team (PPT). The state standard in Connecticut includes both regression/recoupment criteria and nonregression criteria to determine if a child is eligible to receive ESY services. This means that we look at how much a student might regress without services during breaks and how quickly they can recoup the lost skills when school resumes. Additionally, other factors such as the severity of the child's disability and the nature of their educational needs are considered.
Once eligibility is determined, the ESY special education and related services, as well as any indirect services, are documented in the Individualized Education Program (IEP). This documentation uses an identical format to the services provided during the regular school year, ensuring consistency and clarity for everyone involved.
Here are the key points to remember about ESY services in Connecticut:
- The need for ESY services is reviewed annually by the PPT.
- Eligibility is based on both regression/recoupment criteria and nonregression criteria.
- Once eligible, services are documented in the IEP in the same format as regular school year services.
Understanding and implementing ESY services can be complex, but it's crucial for the continued development and success of our students. If you have any questions or need further information, please follow this link.
