By Marion M. Walsh, Esq.,& Sandi Rosenbaum, Special Education Advocate
The New York State Board of Regents announced that they are expanding the Safety Net Option for students with disabilities to earn a local diploma. The expansion took effect on December 12, 2017 on an emergency basis, beginning with students graduating in January 2018 and the Board of Regents will, in all likelihood, approve the expansion in March 2018 as a permanent change.
Some initial reports have indicated that parents applaud the move. However, parents and students need to be very cautious.This easier access to a diploma could have unforeseen consequences and pressure students to leave school before they are ready. Once students earn a high school diploma, they are no longer eligible for special education services, even if they are not independent.
