Special Education

DOE clarifies the duration and location of related services

Please make sure you're aware of an important May 26, 2010 memo issued by District 75 Superintendent Bonnie Brown that clarifies two longstanding issues regarding travel time and location of service for related services. Go here to read or print out the memo. According to the memo, travel time may not be included as part of the direct service time for students receiving related services and students with disabilities who receive instruction in special (self-contained) classes may receive related services in a location outside of the special education class. If your school is not following these policies, please notify the union by filing an online Special Education Complaint. The memo is directly addressed to District 75 principals and staff, but the same rules apply to ALL district schools. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your chapter leader.

Special education programs exist to ensure that all of our city’s children, including those with disabilities and challenges, have the opportunity for an education and the chance to reach their full potential. There are federal, state and city laws, regulations and procedures in place to ensure that special ed students get the assistance and services they need and deserve.

Now with yet another reorganization of special ed on the horizon, the UFT has launched a pro-active campaign to help ensure that students get the services, support and resources they need.

ACCEPT NO EXCUSE.
Defend the IEP.
It’s the law.

Click here for campaign materials and more information.