Parents of children qualifying for special education services will be excited to learn that the PA Department of Education decided on September 5, 2023 to extend a student’s eligibility for those services until age 22 allowing for adult education.  Pennsylvania previously capped these services at age 21.  This frustrated may because once their child turned 21 services stopped even if the child’s birthday was in the middle of a school year.  Here’s what you need to know:

  • Eligible students may remain free of charge in public school until 22 years of age.
  • This policy applies to those who were 21 during the 2022-23 school year and had services stopped.
  • This policy applies to those who turned 21 during the summer of 2023.
  • Be sure to check your school districts web site for steps to follow in order to continue services.
  • You will need to re-enroll your child.

Read the press release here.