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Extended School Year (ESY) Program

Children's hands with smiles painted on them

For some students with disabilities, having the summer off from school proves to be a disadvantage. Without consistent use or practice, a natural regression can often occur in the skills and achievements they have worked so hard to master. These backward steps then precipitate students having to repeat previous programs at the start of the next school year, instead of being able to move forward with a focus towards new goals and achievements.  ESY is designed to provide opportunities for academic, emotional, behavioral, and social growth for qualifying students. 

To help these students maintain their academic and skill levels, the Extended School Year (ESY) program provides a five-week, mid-summer session. Classes are held Monday through Thursday, from 9 am to 2:30 pm in locations all across the county.  This program is for students in grades kindergarten to age 21.

During the summer of 2025, the Bucks IU ESY Team:

  • Students served is between 1,000-1,150 annually
  • ESY provided 2300 services in responses to requests from school districts, homes, and community based programs
  • Supported students are from throughout Bucks County, attending the Bucks IU ESY or their school district's program, as well as students from surrounding counties who otherwise would not have access to these types of services over the summer

The ESY Program is Monday through Thursday with Paraeducators (Teacher Assistants) working 8:45-2:45, Teachers 8:30-3:00, and Related Services Providers working flexible hours.

Eligibility for the Program

Eligibility is determined by several factors, including a recommendation made through the student’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP) based on a review of past breaks in service that show a probability of significant regression. Additionally, there is a consideration regarding the severity of the disability and how critical the skill(s) are to the child’s IEP goals of self-sufficiency and independence from caretakers.  Parents should speak with their student’s teachers and school administration if they feel their child should be considered for inclusion in this program.