One at One: Student IEP Speech Services During COVID-19

Today’s Issue:

If a classified student receives 30 minutes of 1:1 speech 2x a week as a direct service in their Individualized Education Program (“IEP”), does that student get the same direct speech services via telepractice?

Answer:

Yes. On April 1, 2020, the NJDOE temporarily modified regulations allowing services to be provided through telemedicine, telehealth or through electronic communications, including virtual, remote, and/or online platforms, as appropriate, and as required by the student’s IEP to the greatest extent possible. Thus, this student gets the same direct speech services via telepractice per the IEP unless declined by the parent/guardian, or not appropriate or possible for a legitimate reason.

Resources:

https://nj.gov/education/sboe/meetings/agenda/2020/April/public/5d%20Item%20D%20Special%20Education%20revised.pdf

https://www.nj.gov/education/broadcasts/2019/JUN/04/20166/Delivery%20of%20Related%20Services%20to%20Students%20with%20Disabilities%20Through%20Telepractice.pdf

To Learn More about FPSCTT’s Education and School Law Practice, please contact:

Lester Taylor, Partner and Co-Chair
Christine Soto, Partner and Co-Chair
Afshan Ajmiri Giner, Senior Associate

This post is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice.