What must be considered in determining eligibility for Extended School Year (ESY) services?

Determining eligibility for Extended School Year (ESY) services involves careful consideration of the severity of the student's needs. The purpose of ESY services is to prevent significant regression in a student's skills and knowledge during extended breaks from school, especially for students with disabilities.

When evaluating a student's eligibility, a team typically analyzes how the severity of their disabilities might result in substantial losses in academic or functional skills if they are not provided with services during breaks. For example, students who have a risk of losing critical skills over the summer due to their specific disabilities may qualify for ESY to maintain their progress.

While other factors such as age, grade level, time spent in special education, and academic performance can influence the decision-making process, the primary focus of ESY eligibility is on the impact of the student’s needs. This ensures that the services provided effectively support the individual requirements of students, tailoring interventions that address the unique challenges they face.