Current restrictions in New York State certain supports and services for students with disabilities cannot be accessed only outside school hours. Under normal circumstances this structure has not been a significant issue of concern; however, with schools set to open in a few weeks, not all students are able to return for in-person education. This includes those with health conditions that put them at greater risk for COVID-19 and those with developmental disabilities who may not be able to meet social distancing and face mask requirements.

In a letter to the Governor, Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara, Chair of the Assembly’s Sub-Committee on Autism Spectrum Disorders, is calling on the Governor to provide ‘temporary relief’ from state restrictions that will allow many families to go back to work and for their loved ones to be safe and cared for. Please click here to read the full text of the letter.

In the letter, Santabarbara wrote, “As it stands, these families will now be forced to care for and provide an education for their children during the school day without access to the supports and services they are entitled to. Under the current circumstances, I ask that you make the necessary changes that would allow these families to access these support services during the school day.”

Santabarbara added, “These programs are important as they can help special education students regain much of what they have lost during COVID-19. They are also an essential source of support for families and their loved ones, providing reliable care, therapeutic and health services, educational activities and social interaction. Please do all you can to provide the flexibility to serve the educational needs of this population.”