If you are homeschooling a child with special needs, you need to follow your state’s homeschool regulations. There are no additional requirements for homeschooling children with special needs.

Per New York Education Law Section 3602-c, students have a right to access special services according to the needs outlined in their Individual Education Plan. These services must be requested, in writing, by June 1. The guidance letter from NYSED can be found online. With the change to the immunization exemptions on June 13, 2019, the NYSED has declared that homeschool students with special education needs cannot receive services on public school grounds without being vaccinated. You can find numerous FAQs from several New York State agencies here.

Note: As you decide what kind of special needs services and therapy best meet your child’s needs, we want you to know that HSLDA Compassion Curriculum Grants are available to help with diagnostic services, therapy, curriculum, or other educational materials.