Monday, March 30, 2020 Dear Parents/Guardians of Students with Disabilities:
We recognize the challenges presented due to the national emergency of the COVID-19 outbreak. We know the importance of maintaining a sense of normalcy during this time while simultaneously seeking ways to ensure that all students, especially those with disabilities, have access to meaningful educational opportunities, even under these difficult circumstances. Our goal is to support your child as we strive to deliver continuity of learning. As we work through these efforts we appreciate your ongoing collaboration.
During the initial school closure of March 16-27, special education and related services through an Individualized Education Program (IEP) were not provided to FCPS students with disabilities as the time was considered a school closure, similar to weather-related closures. Today, however, schools began delivering continuity of learning. Continuity of learning is the delivery and receipt of learning that can be completed with limited instruction during this time when students are unable to physically be in the typical school environment. FCPS teachers are offering continuity of learning through distance learning. It is also through these means that we will deliver special education and related services for students with IEPs.
During this national emergency, it will not be feasible or safe for schools to provide all services in the same manner, time, and method they typically provide when students are physically in school. As such, services will be provided to the maximum extent possible, using the most feasible methods for each student under these circumstances. While FCPS will deliver most services and supports through distance learning, we may deliver some supports through individualized printed learning packets of materials, or guidance and directions provided to families in working with their child. This determination will be made in collaboration with case managers, related service providers, general educators, instructional support staff, and families. Regardless of the methodology of continuity of learning, we will provide reasonable supplementary aids and services, and accommodations for students. Case managers, in collaboration with your input, will be considerate of your family's individual circumstances when planning for continuity of learning through distance learning for your child.
As we embark upon continuity of learning via distance learning, special education case managers and related service providers will contact families via email, phone call, or some other virtual means to discuss how special education and related services will be delivered. Case managers and related service providers will also work collaboratively with you to make decisions regarding IEP team meetings. In many instances, meetings may be delayed until students return to school and services are delivered under typical circumstances. However, if IEP meetings are necessary, they may be held through a virtual platform. IEP teams will convene once schools reopen to determine necessary revisions to your student’s active IEP in response to your child’s progress during distance learning. If your child or members in your family are experiencing health issues that may prohibit the access of distance learning in the manner described, please share this with your child’s case manager so that the distance learning plan can be revised accordingly.
FCPS special education and related service providers look forward to partnering with you as we deliver continuity of learning for your child during these unprecedented times in public education. We understand that, during this declared national emergency, there may be additional questions you have about your child’s program. We encourage you to work with your child’s case manager in addressing your concerns. Additionally, central office staff are poised and ready to support school-based staff, and you, in answering questions beyond the school level.
Again, thank you for your ongoing support and collaboration as we continue to support your child during this unprecedented time in public education.
Together in education, Michelle Concepcion and Linda Chambers Directors Special Education Office Frederick County Public Schools