Supporting Students with Exceptionalities Through Covid-19 Impact

In the midst of unprecedented events surrounding Covid-19, educators are facing new and difficult challenges. Michigan CEC is committed to supporting teachers, parents, and ultimately students across our state and will be providing updates on resources that address the provision of special education services for our students. I would like to applaud the United States Department of Education (USDOE), the Office of Special Education Programs and Services (OSEP), the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) and the Council for Exceptional Children's (CEC) Council for Administrators of Special Education (CASE) for their timely response with resources to help guide the field.

Below you will find resources that have been developed over the last few days that answer questions related to special education service provision and the many scenarios that have, or may, come as a result of mandated school closures. As more resources become available, or as these are updated, Michigan CEC will work to keep the list updated for our members and others within the field.

Council for Exceptional Children
Covid-19 Information for Special Educators Like You Memo- March 16

Michigan Department of Education
Compliance Requirements of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Michigan Administrative Rules for Special Education (MARSE) during a Public Health Emergency

United States Department of Education
Webpage and Resources related to Coronavirus

Office of Special Education Programs
Questions and Answers on Providing Services for Children with Disabilities During the Coronavirus Disease Outbreak

Council for Administrators of Special Education
Considerations for Special Education Administrators

I would also encourage members to review and participate in conversations happening in the CEC All-Member Forum to gain or share ideas related to service provision during these times.

Thank you, as always, for the support that you provide for students across our great state.

Ben Hicks
Michigan CEC President hicksb.mcec@gmail.com
Director of Special Education, Char-Em ISD
Twitter: @HicksEducation