The majority of public school systems are not in session between the months of June and August, which results in a temporary lapse of academic instruction. Students who are receiving special education services, however, sometimes have problems retaining what they have learned during the school year when faced with a summer break. These students are able to receive extended school year services (ESY) as provided by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Children with special education needs who participate in an extended school year program are much less likely to regress academically, behaviorally, or socially. The continued stream of support services allows a child to keep working toward his or her individual progress goals.
The IEP team, which typically consists of teachers, parents, and special education professionals, takes several considerations into account when determining if a child is qualified to receive extended school year services. Some students receive an assessment after a shorter holiday break that tests for any loss of behavioral or academic skill, as children who regress when out of school for a week are highly likely to need special education services throughout the summer. The IEP team also evaluates whether a child's needs can be met in a less structured home atmosphere, if the child will have consistent exposure to typical peers over the summer, and if it will be difficult for the child to recover any lost skills quickly during the following academic year.
