COVID-19 RESPONSE
Since 1974, the law firm of Sussan, Greenwald & Wesler has specialized in advocating on behalf of families with special needs. That commitment has never wavered. As many families face interruptions in needed services and uncertainty about what lies ahead, SGW attorneys are working tirelessly to provide help and guidance.
In order to continue uninterrupted support for clients, SGW is currently offering phone and virtual consultations.
Live Q&A Town Hall Registration
We know you have questions and concerns during this challenging time. Through the use of online software programs, we will be conducting live virtual Town Hall meetings to address these concerns.
Click here for a list of our upcoming Q&A Town Hall meetings
News & Updates
July 6, 2020
The US Department of Education has issued guidance which would allow for the use of private medical evaluations to establish eligibility for EI services, as well as the provision of interim IFSP’s, due the current limitations imposed by COVID. Read attached memo.
Download here the Initial Evaluation and Assessment Timeline
On April 27, 2020
Secretary of Education, Betsy DeVos, submitted to Congress a list of recommended waivers.
On page 11, it is noted, “The Department is not requesting waiver authority for any of the core tenets of the IDEA or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, most notably a free appropriate public education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment (LRE).” The letter goes on to state that schools must provide education to all students, including those with disabilities, and that the needs of the individual student should guide decisions and expenditures.
The waiver recommends that services typically provided in person be permitted to be provided through alternative methods.
The waiver also recommends for an allowance of continued services through Part C (Early Intervention) due to delayed transition to Part B (Age 3 to 21).
On April 25, 2020
The New Jersey Department of Health, issued guidance clarifying that designated support persons for people with disabilities are considered essential. Hospitals are required to allow a designated support person to remain with a disabled patient during hospitalization. A designated support person may be a family member, personal care assistant or another disability service provider.
April 1, 2020
The New Jersey State Board of Education approved emergency changes in state administrative code to allow students with disabilities to receive their special education services remotely while schools are closed due to the coronavirus.
Download here the latest updates from the NJ State Department of Education