Special Education Guidance in Response to the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Outbreak in New York State

The Board of Regents and the New York State Education Department (NYSED) continue to work with our partners at the state, local, and federal levels to keep school leaders, educators and parents/guardians informed as the Coronavirus pandemic evolves.  The Office of Special Education is providing the following Covid-19 related guidance specific to students with disabilities.  Additional resources are available on NYSED's Coronavirus website.  You are encouraged to visit these webpages frequently for the latest updates.

Guidance from NYSED’s Office of Special Education

• Special Education Requirements and Approaches to Address the Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Students with Disabilities – June 2021
  • Extended School Year Programs During Summer 2022 – June 2022
  • Compensatory Services for Students with Disabilities as a Result of the COVID-19 Pandemic – June 2021
  • Considerations for Addressing the Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic: Promoting Equity in Educational Resources, Opportunities, and Welcoming Environments for Students with Disabilities – June 2021
• Frequently Asked Questions and Answers Regarding the Provision of Services to Students with Disabilities During the 2020-21 School Year  – October 2020
• CPSE Considerations for Conducting Preschool Evaluations during COVID-19 – June 22, 2020
• Memo: Supplement #3 - Provision of Services to Students With Disabilities During Statewide School Closures Due to Novel Coronavirus (Covid-19) Outbreak in New York State – June 20, 2020
• Memo: Supplement #2 - Provision of Services to Students With Disabilities During Statewide School Closures Due to Novel Coronavirus (Covid-19) Outbreak in New York State – June 20, 2020
• Parental Right to Decline Examination Waivers - May 27, 2020
• Supplement #1 – Provision of Services to Students with Disabilities During Statewide School Closures Due to Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Outbreak in New York State – Additional Questions and Answers - April 27, 2020
• Memo: Emergency Regulations for the Provision of Special Education Programs and Services and Due Process Procedures in Response to the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Outbreak in New York State - April 16, 2020
• Provision of Services to Students with Disabilities During Statewide School Closures Due to Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Outbreak in New York State - March 27, 2020
• NYSED Guidance to Approved Special Education Schools Regarding Novel Coronavirus and Executive Order 202.4 - March 20, 2020

Guidance from the U.S. Department of Education & the Federal Government

There are several Department of Education COVID-19 resources available for states, communities, educators, and families. These resources include guidance and policies related to special education, postsecondary education, and other aspects of lifelong learning. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also continues to provide updated guidance for school settings.

Additional Resources

Featured Partner: INCLUDEnyc

INCLUDEnyc: Resources for young people with disabilities

INCLUDEnyc is a leading provider of training and information for young people with any disability (age 0-26) in New York City, their families, and the professionals who support them. Additional resources are available at INCLUDEnyc COVID-19 resources.