Office of Special ¹ú²úºÚÁÏ Advisory Panels
The State Advisory Panels advise the ¹ú²úºÚÁÏ (¹ú²úºÚÁÏ) in the performance of its responsibilities outlined in the Individuals with Disabilities ¹ú²úºÚÁÏ Act (IDEA) to address the needs of children and youth with disabilities. ¹ú²úºÚÁÏ partners with these key stakeholder groups as part of ongoing efforts to improve outcomes for students with disabilities throughout New York State.
Commissioner's Advisory Panel for Special ¹ú²úºÚÁÏ Services
The Commissioner's Advisory Panel for Special ¹ú²úºÚÁÏ Services was established pursuant to P.L. 94-142 (¹ú²úºÚÁÏ of the Handicapped Act) and reauthorized through P.L. 108-446 IDEA. The Panel functions in an advisory capacity to the Office of Special ¹ú²úºÚÁÏ and advises the Governor, Legislature and Commissioner of unmet needs in the education of children with disabilities. Its responsibilities are prescribed by section 4403(6) of the State ¹ú²úºÚÁÏ Law in accordance with section 612 of the IDEA.
Youth Advisory Panel
The Youth Advisory Panel advises the Office of Special ¹ú²úºÚÁÏ on proposed policies related to the education of students with disabilities through facilitated discussions with ¹ú²úºÚÁÏ staff. In addition to commenting on and providing their recommendations regarding proposed policies, panel members share their concerns and recommendations for future policy consideration. Their participation serves to advise ¹ú²úºÚÁÏ from a first-hand perspective on ways to improve the quality of special education services and student outcomes.