October 2020 - Please download the October 2020 student services newsletter.
On June 1, 2020, Elizabeth Fitzmaurice, Assistant Superintendent for Student Services, provided additional information on Extended School Year programming, as well as summer services.
On May 12, 2020, Elizabeth Fitzmaurice, Assistant Superintendent for Student Services, provided additional information service plans, the role of aides and behavior therapists, virtual IEP meetings, planning for summer/fall, and a unique educational opportunity.
Information for April 6th - End of Year
On April 27, 2020, Elizabeth Fitzmaurice, Assistant Superintendent for Student Services, provided detailed information on special education services for the remainder of the school year.
In addition, MA Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (MA DESE) has provided guidance and resources for families with students utilizing special education services. You can find PDFs of the documents below:
MA DESE Letter to Families - April 9, 2020
MA DESE Family Resource Toolbox
U.S. Department of Education - March 21, 2020 Fact Sheet
The assistant superintendent for student services provided an overview of how special education services will be delivered beginning April 6th.
Use these tips for specific recommendations on creating a structured learning environment at home.
See here for additional learning resources for students.
Information for March 12th - April 6th Closure
IEP Meetings/Evaluations in Process
IEP meetings will be rescheduled. At some point in the future, we may resume by holding remote participation meetings. You will be notified by your student’s special education liaison or administrator about scheduling options.
Newton Public Schools, along with other districts in the Commonwealth, will pause evaluation, referral, annual review, and plan distribution timelines for all students on IEPs and 504s. This means that as soon as schools reopen, the timelines will commence, as required by state and federal regulations. Additionally, at that time we will be working with families to understand the impact of the closure on individual students and will work to schedule/reschedule meetings as needed.
If upon reopening, access to school buildings is limited to essential employees and students, IEP meetings will be held virtually through video or phone conferences with parental consent or can be rescheduled if requested. A follow-up in-person meeting may be scheduled after restrictions are lifted; parents are asked to speak with their special education liaison or administrator about their student’s meetings.
Special Education Referrals/Initial Eligibility
Newton Public Schools, along with other schools in the Commonwealth, will freeze evaluation, referral, and plan distribution timelines for all students in a referral cycle. This means that as soon as schools reopen, the timelines will commence as required by state and federal regulations.
Special Education Services
During school closures, the Newton Public Schools will follow the Department of Education Guidance issued March 2020. The district encourages students to remain engaged while school is not in session and to that end schools will provide suggestions and resources for enrichment activities. These enrichment opportunities are not considered instruction and teachers, special education team members and counselors may remain in touch with students and families to check in on students, and to offer support and guidance as needed. Although there is no obligation for students to engage in the enrichment activities, we do encourage participation.
Once school reopens, the Newton Public Schools will resume providing special education and related services to children in accordance with the child’s IEP. If special education services cannot be provided once school reopens, teams will make individual determinations for the requirement of compensatory services.
Home Services
Home services and assessments will not occur during school closures. Additionally, once school reopens, our ability to send staff or contracted service providers into homes is contingent upon staff and student health and wellness in accordance with state and CDC guidelines, protocols to limit activities within the community, or availability of home service providers. If home services cannot be provided once school reopens, teams will make individual determinations for the requirement of compensatory services.
Out-of-District Day and Residential Placements
For students in out-of-district day or residential placements, Newton Public Schools will follow the attendance recommendations of the individual out-of-district school or facility. If your student’s out-of-district school closes, the Newton Public Schools will not provide interim educational and/or special education services.
Newton Special Education Transportation
The Newton Transportation Office will continue to provide transportation to out-of-district schools that remain open and for students who are able to attend.
Home Hospital Tutoring
Once school resumes, for students who may have medical or health issues and are physically unable to come to school as a result of COVID-19, the district will follow our process with regard to Home and Hospital Tutoring. This applies to students who will miss 14 or more school days as a result of being physically unable to come to school due to a health or medical issue. A physician’s statement is required to initiate this process. If this situation applies to your child, please contact your school’s Special Education Coordinator or Director.
The Special Education Department is committed to maintaining a safe and supportive environment for students and continues to closely monitor COVID-19 and its impact on student learning and social emotional needs. We acknowledge that this situation is difficult and appreciate your commitment to the health of your family. Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns.
