Evaluation

Introduction:

On July 26, 2021, federal guidance was released that explains that a student experiencing long COVID may be eligible under 504 or IDEA. 

• If you have concerns about a student situation related to this guidance, please connect with the Problem Solving team if the student does not currently have a 504 or IEP. 

• If the student currently has a 504 or IEP, please connect with the school psychologist. 

• Feel free to contact special services leadership with additional questions in this area.  

Long Covid under Section 504 & IDEA Guidance as of July 26, 2021

"A child or student experiencing long COVID or other conditions that have arisen as a result of COVID-19 may be eligible for special education and related services under IDEA and/or may be entitled to protections and services under Section 504. Some children and students who were already identified 3 as having a disability under IDEA and/or Section 504 and who have contracted COVID-19 may experience new or worsened symptoms related to their pre-existing disability, to COVID-19, or to both. If these symptoms persist in the form of long COVID, these children or students may need new or different related aids and services, specialized instruction, or reasonable modifications. Other children or students may be found eligible for services under IDEA and/or Section 504 for the first time because of the adverse impact of long COVID on the child’s educational achievement and functioning (IDEA) or if long COVID substantially limits one or more of the student’s major life activities (Section 504)."