Extended School Year (ESY): Understanding the Benefits and Challenges for Students with Disabilities

By Jackie Breault-Straffe | July 2, 2026

For many students, summer break is a time to relax and recharge. However, for some students receiving special education services, an extended break from instruction may result in a significant loss of critical skills. To address this concern, school districts may offer Extended School Year (ESY) services to eligible students with disabilities.

ESY is not the same as summer school. Instead, it is a specialized program designed to provide continued instruction and support to help students maintain skills identified in their Individualized Education Program (IEP). Eligibility is determined by the IEP team based on the student’s unique needs and data collected throughout the school year.

Benefits of ESY

One of the primary advantages of ESY is the prevention of skill regression. Some students may lose academic, communication, behavioral, social, or daily living skills during extended school breaks and require substantial time to regain those skills when school resumes. ESY can help maintain progress and reduce the need for reteaching.

Additional benefits include:

  • Continued practice of IEP goals and objectives
  • Increased consistency in routines and supports
  • Opportunities to strengthen social and communication skills
  • Support for students who require ongoing instruction to make meaningful educational progress
  • Reduced stress for families concerned about skill loss over the summer

Potential Challenges of ESY

While ESY can be highly beneficial, there are also considerations for families and educators.

Some challenges may include:

  • Limited program hours or services compared to the regular school year
  • Fewer opportunities for typical summer activities and vacations
  • Transportation and scheduling difficulties for families
  • Variability in staffing and program locations
  • Some students may experience fatigue from year-round educational programming

It is important for families to work closely with their child’s IEP team to determine whether ESY services are appropriate and to ensure the program addresses the student’s individual needs.

Final Thoughts

ESY is an important support for students who require ongoing services to maintain educational progress. Decisions regarding ESY should be individualized and based on data, not disability category alone. When properly implemented, ESY can provide valuable continuity of instruction and help students return to school in the fall ready to continue building upon their success.

References

Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), 20 U.S.C. §1400 et seq.

34 C.F.R. §300.106. Extended School Year Services.

Pennsylvania Department of Education. (2024). Extended School Year (ESY) Guidance for Students with Disabilities.

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP). Extended School Year Services Guidance.

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