Earlier this year, Governor Wolf signed Act 13, which provided several forms of relief for school entities throughout the Commonwealth. Most recently, the General Assembly enacted further relief for schools through Act 15. Together, these Acts have bolstered the flexibility required for schools to continue services, where possible, and maintain operations. Act 13 KingSpry thoroughly analyzed each … [Read more...] about Act 13 and Act 15 Bolster Flexibility for Pennsylvania Schools
COVID-19
Applying IDEA and Section 504 in the Time of COVID
Recently, PDE’s Bureau of Special Education (BSE) issued guidance which states, “LEAs should work to ensure that a student receiving special education services is continuing to be provided with FAPE, as appropriate and reasonable for each student’s circumstances. Educational and related services and supports may need to be adjusted accordingly.” Services to be provided to students identified as … [Read more...] about Applying IDEA and Section 504 in the Time of COVID
Act 15 0f 2020 Brings Much Needed Relief to Businesses and Political Subdivisions in Pennsylvania
On April 20, 2020, Governor Wolf signed Act 15 of 2020 (SB 841), providing various forms of relief for businesses and municipalities throughout the Commonwealth. Along with creating a new apparatus for containing healthcare costs stemming from the COVID-19 health crisis, Act 15 adds Chapter 57 to Title 35 (Health and Public Safety) called “COVID-19 Disaster Emergency.” The new Chapter includes … [Read more...] about Act 15 0f 2020 Brings Much Needed Relief to Businesses and Political Subdivisions in Pennsylvania
Districts Are Reminded to Take Precautions Regarding Privacy During Era of Virtual Participation and Communication
Schools are engaging with students and families via virtual communication tools during the government-ordered closure. A review of privacy measures is recommended. In a previous article, we provided guidance to schools regarding videoconferencing questions for online education. While clearly, the use of virtual classroom technologies does not present a de facto FERPA concern, schools must … [Read more...] about Districts Are Reminded to Take Precautions Regarding Privacy During Era of Virtual Participation and Communication
IDEA Procedural and Timeline Relief Recommended
On March 31, 2020, state and local special education administration organizations recommended temporary relief for certain IDEA provisions due to the school closures resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. The organizations involved in drafting the recommendations include the National Association of State Directors of Special Education (NASDSE) and the Counsel of Administrators of Special … [Read more...] about IDEA Procedural and Timeline Relief Recommended
Ensuring Government Transparency Under Right to Know During COVID-19
Government directives to close schools and non-essential businesses, and the current statewide stay-at-home directive limit the ability of public entities to respond to (Right to Know) requests for public records. Here is a summary of legal obligations during this time. Agencies should continue to process and respond to Right to Know request to the extent possible. The agency’s initial … [Read more...] about Ensuring Government Transparency Under Right to Know During COVID-19
