Students across Delaware lost critical opportunities due to the pandemic. Special education students were hit particularly hard, especially those set to age out of crucial programs. For those students turning 21 this school year, there is now hope in the form of legislation that offers a sturdy bridge into adulthood rather than a steep cliff.
Governor John Carney on Thursday signed into law House Bill 128, legislation I championed to allow the extension of special education services to students with a disability who turn 21 during the 2020-2021 school year until the end of the 2021-2022 school year. The additional time will help these young adults with vital services such as job training and independent living. If the student’s Individualized Education Program team agrees, the young adult will be paired with a specific service along with time to accomplish the goal. Without this law, these students would not have had another summer or school year to recoup the lost time. Fortunately, for the taxpayers of Delaware, federal emergency funds will pay for these vital services.
While school districts worked hard to simulate opportunities for these young adults during the pandemic, the ability to work directly with community partners cannot be replicated. With most Delawareans now vaccinated, these young adults will now be able to have more hands-on opportunities to learn in the community.
If you or a loved one are 21 this school year and receive special education services, contact your school district immediately to see if you qualify for this extra time. This may be just what many of our young people need to successfully transition to adulthood.
Krista Griffith, State Representative, 12th District