Chair Dinowitz explains Intro 853-A special education access study
Dinowitz details Intro 853-A, which requires DOE to supplement special education reporting with analysis of geographic location, home language, and household income. He notes NYC's large special education system, federal IDEA obligations, a 2023 Comptroller report on missed services, and the bill's requirement to identify barriers and recommend fixes.
Proposed Introduction No.
853A requires the DOE to supplement existing special education reporting with analysis on how geographic location, home language, and household income affect students'access to special education programs and services.
New York City operates the largest special education system in the United States, with approximately 24.2% of K-12 students in the 2025-2026 school year having been classified as having a disability.
Under federal law, students with disabilities are entitled to a free and appropriate education in the least restrictive environment, as guaranteed.
by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.
Yet, a 2023 New York City Comptroller report found that the DOE failed to deliver mandated special education services to thousands of students.
Proposed Introduction 853A aims to enhance DOE's reporting on the delivery of special education services.
So students and families can better understand the impact of social and economic factors on access to those services.
The legislation also requires DUE to identify any barriers to access to special education programs and services and requires DUE to make recommendations on how to address those barriers.
As a council member, but more importantly, as a former special education teacher, I am proud to support this bill as a co-sponsor and want to thank Council Member Zwayne for moving this bill forward.