What is ESY (Extended School Year)?

Written By Ashley Mehr

When school lets out for summer, many students take a break. But for some students with disabilities, time away from structured support can lead to significant loss of skills. That’s where Extended School Year (ESY) services come in

What is ESY?

Extended School Year (ESY) is a special education service provided outside the regular school year, typically during summer, for students with IEPs who need continued support.

The purpose of ESY is not to help a student catch up or get ahead.

It is to prevent significant regression of critical skills and ensure the student can maintain progress made during the school year.

Who Qualifies for ESY?

ESY eligibility is determined by the IEP team, including the parent, based on individual need.

A student may qualify if they:

  • Show significant regression during school breaks

  • Take an extended time to regain lost skills

  • Have emerging skills that are at risk of being lost

  • Would experience long-term impact from interrupted services

Eligibility is not based on disability category. It is based on how the student is affected by breaks in instruction.

What Does ESY Look Like?

ESY services should be individualized and tied directly to IEP goals. They may include:

  • 1:1 or small group instruction

  • Related services (speech, OT, behavioral support)

  • Transportation, if required for access

There is no standard ESY model. Services should match the student’s needs—not a preset program.

How to Request ESY

If you believe your child may need ESY:

  • Document regression - Track skill loss or request data from the school

  • Request an IEP meeting - Ask the team to review ESY eligibility

  • Advocate clearly - Explain how breaks impact your child

Even if a district offers a standard ESY program, decisions must still be based on individual need and IEP data.

Need Help with ESY?

Futures Unwalled supports families by:

  • Reviewing IEPs and data

  • Preparing for ESY discussions

  • Attending IEP meetings for support

📞 Call or text: 714-253-4060

🌐 Submit a referral or intake: https://www.futuresunwalled.org/referrals

Ashley Mehr
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