What You Need to Know About Act 55: Extra School Year for Students with Disabilities Turning 21

Late last week, Governor Wolf signed a piece of legislation, which is being referred to as Act 55 into law.  Act 55 allows for an additional school year for students with disabilities aging out of special education.

Students with disabilities who turned 21 during the 2021-2022 school year (including during the 2022 summer) are eligible to attend school during the upcoming 2022-2023 school year. Students with disabilities who are eligible can attend school in the upcoming school year and receive services as outlined in their most recent Individualized Education Plan (IEP).

The bill is clear that all IDEA provisions apply during this additional year.  In addition, deciding to attend for this additional year does not replace any student’s ability to pursue compensatory education for gaps and losses that have occurred.

Parents/guardians and students who are interested must submit a student enrollment form to their school.  August 1^st is the deadline to notify your school if you want your child to have an additional school year.   The PA Department of Education form is available here.  You can find frequently asked questions here. 

Please contact Disability Rights Pennsylvania at 1-800-692-7443 x400 to discuss questions about your student’s situation.