Return to Learn

Below you will find a list of Return to Learn Resources as well as a video from Dr. Barb Guy who provides an overview of Return 2 Learn concepts and guidance, orients the audience to the department's Return 2 Learn resources, and provides answers to some of the questions families most frequently contact the ASK an Advocate Helpline about regarding Return 2 Learn.

Remote Learning vs Homebound vs Homeschool: Helping Education Leaders and Communities Identify the Key Differences

Sometimes people think that remote learning, homebound services, and homeschooling are the same thing, but they are not. Each have state specific policies and procedures for implementation. Remote learning is an alternative instructional learning model being utilized in school systems across the county in various ways as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Review the comparison below to understand the key differences in each and how IDEA provisions apply.

Read the NASDSE PDF

Considerations for IEP Teams Regarding How to Address Progress Monitoring

Progress monitoring is a scientifically based practice that is used to assess students' academic performance and evaluate the effectiveness of instruction. Progress monitoring can be implemented with individual students or with an entire class"

Read the AEA's Google Document

FERPA, IEPs and Virtual Learning

This document is intended to answer common questions regarding obligations to meet FERPA requirements while serving learners with disabilities through virtual learning (i.e., Continuous Learning). It is not intended to provide a comprehensive discussion of FERPA regulations. This resource is organized around three topical areas of consideration: Virtual IEPs or other Confidential Meetings, Virtual Lessons and Collection of Data.

Read the AEA's Google Document

Virtual IEP Meeting Tip Sheets

This resource was developed in response to requests from state and local educational agencies and parents about how to hold and participate in virtual individualized education program (IEP) meetings. While intended to meet a need during the current COVID-19 pandemic, we hope the content will have broader application.

Read the IDEAs that Work PDF

Electronic Signatures for IDEA Administrative Purposes

Electronic signatures are an acceptable and convenient means of obtaining consent for IDEA administrative purposes at any time. The convenience of electronic signatures has become even more apparent during this response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This support document provides reminders of when consent is needed for IDEA administrative procedures and suggestions for ways to obtain the electronic signature. The information provided here is not to be confused with consent to receive electronic information or privacy requirements for provision of teleservices.

Read the AEA's Google Document

ASK an Expert Webinar with Dr. Barb Guy - Published August 2020

Dr. Guy provides an overview of Return 2 Learn concepts and guidance, orients the audience to the department's Return 2 Learn resources, and provides answers to some of the questions families most frequently contact the ASK an Advocate Helpline about regarding Return 2 Learn.

Watch the ASK an Expert Video

Return-to-Learn: IDEA Service Delivery Scenarios

The purpose of this document is to support teams in navigating between appropriate methods of service delivery for students in a Continuous Learning (i.e., virtual) model. These services can and may change throughout the school year and between settings as teams determine what is required to best meet student needs.

Read the AEA's Google Document

Prior Written Notice

Prior Written Notice (PWN) is a procedural safeguard under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). It is one of the protections that parents are entitled to. PWN is a written explanation of a change the school district or Area Education Agency (AEA) wants to make or refuses to make in a child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP).

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