# Extended School Year — Definition & Explanation

> From the SchoolBrowse Education Glossary.
> HTML version: https://schoolbrowse.com/glossary/extended-school-year

**In short:** Special education services provided beyond the normal school year to prevent significant regression in critical skills.
**Extended School Year (ESY)** services are special education services provided beyond the regular school year. ESY is designed to prevent significant regression in critical skills that cannot be recouped in a reasonable time. ESY is provided at no cost when determined necessary by the IEP team.

## Eligibility Criteria

ESY eligibility is based on documented evidence of significant regression and limited recoupment, not simply desire for summer services. Teams consider regression data, emerging critical skills, nature of disability, and whether breaks cause substantial setbacks.

## ESY Services

ESY services should address the critical skills at risk, not simply replicate the school year IEP. Services may include specialized instruction, related services, or both. The intensity and duration depend on individual student needs.

## Frequently asked questions

**Q: What is Extended School Year?**

ESY is special education services provided beyond the regular school year to prevent significant regression in critical skills that cannot be quickly recouped.
**Q: How do I know if my child qualifies for ESY?**

ESY eligibility is determined by the IEP team based on data showing significant skill regression over breaks and limited ability to recoup skills.

---
Source: SchoolBrowse Education Glossary (https://schoolbrowse.com/glossary). Please attribute and link to https://schoolbrowse.com/glossary/extended-school-year when citing this definition.