Special Education Support
Navigating special education services can feel overwhelming. This page is a starting point for PS 889 families — whether you're exploring an evaluation for the first time or looking for advocacy support.
Our Parent Coordinator can help connect you with the right resources. Everything on this page is free to families.
IEPs and 504 Plans: what's the difference?
IEP (Individualized Education Program)
A legally binding plan under federal law (IDEA) for students with a disability that affects their educational performance. An IEP provides specialized instruction and related services — it changes what and how your child is taught.
To qualify, a child must have one of the 13 recognized disability classifications (such as a learning disability, autism, speech impairment, or emotional disturbance) and need specially designed instruction.
504 Plan
A plan under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act for students with a disability that limits a major life activity (learning, breathing, walking, etc.). A 504 provides accommodations — it changes how your child accesses the regular curriculum, but not the curriculum itself.
Common for conditions like ADHD, anxiety, asthma, diabetes, or allergies that may not qualify for an IEP. Examples: extended test time, preferential seating, extra breaks, or a nurse's plan.
How to request an IEP evaluation
Any parent can request a special education evaluation at any time — you do not need the school's permission. Here's how:
- Put your request in writing.Send a letter or email to the school principal and your district's Committee on Special Education (CSE). Keep a copy with the date.
- The school must respond. Once consent is given, the DOE has 60 calendar days to complete the evaluation.
- An IEP meeting is scheduled to review results, set goals, and determine services. You are a full member of the team — bring anyone you want (a family member, advocate, outside therapist).
- Interpretation is available in over 200 languages at no cost. Ask the CSE when scheduling the meeting.
All evaluations and services are free to families.
How to request a 504 Plan
- Ask the school for the 504 Accommodation Request forms — one for you and one for your child's doctor.
- Have the doctor complete the Medical Accommodations Request Form documenting the condition and recommended accommodations.
- Submit both forms to the school's 504 Coordinator.
- A 504 Team meeting is scheduled to review documentation and determine eligibility and accommodations.
Questions? Email 504Questions@schools.nyc.gov
Related services available through the DOE
Students with IEPs may receive one or more related services at no cost. If the DOE cannot provide a service at school, you'll receive a voucher (RSA) to get it from an approved independent provider.
Key timelines to know
Initial evaluation: Must be completed within 60 calendar days of parental consent.
Annual review: The IEP team must meet at least once per year to review progress and update goals.
Triennial review: A full re-evaluation every 3 years to confirm continued eligibility.
Parent-requested meeting: You can request an IEP meeting at any time — you don’t have to wait for the annual review.
Your rights as a parent
- You are a full and equal member of the IEP team.
- You can bring anyone to meetings — an advocate, attorney, family member, or outside therapist.
- All documents and meetings must be available in your preferred language.
- You can give or withhold consent for evaluations and services.
- If you disagree with the DOE's evaluation, you can request an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) at public expense.
- You can file for mediation (voluntary and free) or a due process hearing if you and the DOE cannot agree.
- You can file a state complaint with NYSED if you believe the DOE has violated the law.
The DOE must give you a Procedural Safeguards Notice at least once a year explaining all of your rights. If you haven't received one, ask your school or CSE.
Free advocacy and support organizations
You don't have to navigate this alone. These organizations provide free help to NYC families:
Advocates for Children of New York
NYC's leading free special education advocacy organization. Offers a helpline, legal representation, know-your-rights trainings, and a comprehensive annual Guide to Special Education.
Helpline hours: Mon–Thu, 10 am – 4 pm
INCLUDEnyc
A federally funded Parent Training and Information Center. Offers a multilingual helpline, workshops, a resources directory, and one-on-one support from family educators.
Spanish line: (212) 677-4668
Sinergia / Metropolitan Parent Center
Workshops and one-on-one parent support in English and Spanish — advocacy, due process, behavior management, and navigating the NYC system.
Legal Services NYC
Free legal representation in special education hearings and suspension hearings for eligible families.
New York Legal Assistance Group (NYLAG)
Free consultation and representation at impartial hearings and appeals.
Key DOE contacts
| DOE Special Education Office | (718) 935-2007 |
| 311 (general DOE inquiries) | 311 |
| 504 Accommodations | 504Questions@schools.nyc.gov |
| Impartial Hearing Office | IHOQuest@schools.nyc.gov |
| District 75 | (212) 802-1500 |