MDE Releases Guidance on Summer Special Education Programming

May 26, 2020

The Minnesota Department of Education has released guidance regarding In-School Special Education Services during the summer. The guidance is listed as an update in the document Minnesota Summer Programming Guidance for Schools and is summarized below:

• Beginning during summer learning and Extended School Year, a school district or charter school may provide in-school special education services, and assessments or observations needed for special education evaluations.

• Under no circumstances should school staff provide special education services at the student’s home or place of residence.

• If a district determines to provide in-school special education services, and assessments or observations these protocol should be followed:

  • Students, staff, and families shall follow MDH Guidance for Social Distancing in Youth and Student Programs including utilizing a health check for students and staff prior to entering the school and social distancing at least six feet of separation at all times.

  • Review MDH face covering guidance to determine if face coverings, including masks would be appropriate and necessary while providing services.

  • If services cannot be provided in a way that allows for social distancing, the in-school services cannot be provided.

• School districts are highly encouraged to complete initial Part C and Part B initial evaluations/reevaluations that require in-person assessments and observations during summer programming, in accordance with MDH guidance. Initial evaluations may be offered even if a district or charter school is not offering a hybrid instructional model.