Updated Classification for Students with Disabilities

The New York State Board of Regents approved permanent amendments to sections 200.1 and 200.4 of the Regulations of the Commissioner of Education to change the term “emotional disturbance” to “emotional disability.” Christopher Suriano, Assistant Commissioner of the NYS Office of Special Education states this change was made “as the result of stakeholder engagement discussions, survey responses, and the analysis of public comment”. For more information on these amendments, please see the July 2022 official memorandum from the Office of Special Education.

Legal Services of Long Island’s Education and Disability Rights Project (EDRP) is a bi-county project serving both Nassau and Suffolk Counties and can be reached at (516) 292-8100. EDRP represents students with disabilities between the ages of 5-21 in Special Education matters, including attendance at Committee on Special Education (CSE) meetings, Resolution Sessions and Impartial Hearings. In addition, the EDRP assists students in issues pertaining to residency and homelessness and helps adults with developmental disabilities to secure eligibility and services through the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD).