On May 13, the NJSBA Special Education Committee virtually met with special education officials in the New Jersey Department of Education. The committee met with Dominic Rota, Esq., Director of the Office of Special Education Policy and Dispute Resolution and Dr. Kimberly Buxenbaum, Director of the Office of Special Education. These officials shared with the committee what the federal and state departments of education are requiring of local districts during the COVID-19 pandemic and how clear and frequent communication between parents and local school officials can aid students during this time.
The committee shared with the officials its concerns about learning loss for special education students during the pandemic and the need to have a plan for reopening the schools that addresses the needs of special education students.
NJSBA thanks the officials for sharing their time and expertise with the committee.
COVID-19 Special Education Resources The NJSBA COVID-19 Resource Center webpage includes a section under “Resources and Information” heading that focuses on special education. Below are just a few of the resources available there:
- Virtual Service Delivery in Response to COVID-19 Disruptions: Evaluation Guidance In a position paper, the N.J. Association of School Psychologists discourages the continuation of incomplete evaluations or the initiation of new evaluations that require in-person testing and/or observation until schools reopen. Posted May 6.
- Parental Waivers for the Delivery of Remote or Virtual Special Education Services An April 30 memo from the N.J. Department of Education states that requiring a waiver of present or future claims as a condition to implement a student’s IEP is prohibited. Posted May 1.
- Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Practical Resources During the Pandemic The N.J. Department of Education lists resources available to teachers and parents during this period of remote learning and social distancing. Posted April 23.