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What Are Extended School Year (ESY) Services?

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Summary

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ESY stands for Extended School Year. It means some kids get extra school services during summer to keep learning and not lose progress.

Frequently Asked Question

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Who is eligible for ESY services?

ESY services are determined by the student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) team and are based on the student’s specific needs. Typically, students who require additional support to maintain their skills are eligible for ESY services.

What types of services are offered through ESY?

ESY services can include academic instruction, speech therapy, physical therapy, adaptive physical education, life skills training, and other related services. The specific services offered are determined by the student’s individual needs and goals.

How does ESY help students with disabilities?

ESY helps students with disabilities maintain their skills and avoid regression, allowing them to continue making progress toward their goals. The extra support provided through ESY is crucial in helping these students reach their full potential.

Scientific Definition

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Extended School Year (ESY) services are special education and related services provided beyond the regular school year. These services are mandated by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) to help students with disabilities maintain skills and prevent regression. ESY services are tailored to each student’s needs and can include academic instruction, therapy, and other supports.

Helpful Resources

Video Explanation

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Real World Example of ESY Services

Meet Lily, a 10-year-old girl with autism. Her parents noticed she struggled to retain skills learned during the school year.

  • Getting ESY Services: Lily’s school team decided she needed ESY to keep her progress.
  • Summer Classes: Lily attended special classes and therapy sessions during summer.
  • Maintaining Skills: With ESY, Lily didn’t lose important skills and stayed on track.

ESY made a big difference in helping Lily continue to learn and grow even during the summer break.

How Do ESY Services Work?

This program is tailored to meet the needs of kids with special needs to ensure they don’t regress during school breaks:

  • Individualized Plans: Schools create specific plans for each child’s needs.
  • Skill Maintenance: Focus on preventing skill loss over breaks.
  • Various Supports: Includes academic instruction, therapy, and other services.
  • Ongoing Progress: Helps kids keep progressing throughout the year.
Aspect Example
Individualized Plans Custom summer program for a child with speech delays
Skill Maintenance Continuing math lessons to prevent regression
Various Supports Occupational therapy sessions during summer
Ongoing Progress Maintaining social skills with peer interactions

ESY ensures kids with special needs keep learning and developing, even during breaks from the regular school year.

This post was originally published on Feb. 8, 2023. It was updated on May 24, 2024.