Implementing Special Education Programs & Services

These DOE resources below will help you implement special education programs and services in your own classroom and school. 

DOE-UFT FAQ on Special Education, 2016
The FAQ addresses several “hot button” issues in special education. Topics include the obligation of schools to recommend programs and services based on student need regardless of availability in the building, funding, staffing, space, and other considerations; the role of School Implementation Teams (SITs); participation in IEP team meetings; Chapter 408 requirements and issues related to integrated co-teaching services.

Special Education Policy Guidance on Required Participation of General and Special Education Teachers at CSE Meetings (March 2015)
This memo clarifies the required participation of general and special education teachers at CSE meetings. As described on pp.70–72 of the SOPM, a required CSE (IEP team) member may be excused from all or part of an IEP meeting, other than an initial IEP meeting, only if the parent consents to the member’s absence in writing.

Restrictions on Assignment of Special Education Teachers and Service Providers to Other Duties (April 2015)
Special education teachers and providers for these services must serve each student as mandated and may not be assigned to other duties (like exam scoring or coverage/proctoring for other classes) that would prevent them from doing so, except in extraordinary circumstances.  An earlier memo addressed the same topic.

Frequency, Duration and Location of Related Services (May 2010)
This memo clarifies that travel time may not be included as part of the direct service time; that related services can be provided in a location outside of the classroom for students who receive instruction in special classes, and that the location of services must be stated specifically enough so that the team’s recommendation is clear.