What are Supplemental Educational Services (SES)?
Supplemental Educational Services are programs offering extra help in reading, English language arts and mathematics, provided free of charge to certain students in public schools. These services are provided outside of the regular school day—before or after school, on weekends, in schools, in program provider centers, or at a student’s home.
Who can get these services?
Students who are eligible for free lunch AND are enrolled in Title I schools that have been identified by the state education department as “in need of improvement” list for two or more years are eligible to receive free Supplemental Educational Services.
What is a “Title I School in Need of Improvement?”
The New York State Education Department identifies public schools that have not met what is called “adequate yearly progress” (AYP) in achieving state academic standards as “Title I Schools in Need of Improvement” , “Title I Schools in Corrective Action” or “Restructuring.” Schools are identified based on New York State English language arts and mathematics tests. High Schools are identified based on students’ progress in English Language Arts and/or Mathematics Regents and graduation rates.
Are all eligible students guaranteed SES Services?
In accordance with the Federal law, if there are not enough funds to provide services to all eligible students who wish to participate, students will be prioritized based on academic need. This means that the eligible students with the greatest educational needs will be accommodated first.
How will I know if my child is eligible?
Your school will notify you if your child is eligible for Supplemental Educational Services. A package of information will be sent home with your child. If you think your child may be eligible, but you have not received any information, check with the Parent Coordinator at your child’s school.
How do I find a good Supplemental Educational Services Program for my child?
Your school will give you a SES Parent Guide that describes the state-approved providers offering Supplemental Educational Services in New York City. Different kinds of organizations are SES providers, including: private educational companies; public schools districts; community organizations; and faith based organizations. Many providers will offer tutoring by trained instructors. Others may offer computer-based instruction that your child can access through a computer in a school, community center, or at home. You can ask the school to help you choose the best provider for your child, but the choice of provider is yours.
What happens after I’ve chosen a provider of Supplemental Educational Services?
After the applications are processed, the NYCDOE will notify the providers. Providers will then contact you and arrange the start date, time and location of services. Each provider may have a different start date but if you have not heard from the provider by the official start date, contact the provider or your child’s school. You will meet with the provider to develop your child’s Student Education Plan that indicates specific goals for your child; establishes the schedule for services; and explains how your child’s progress will be measured. The NYC Department of Education will pay for the Supplemental Educational Services. If you have questions, do not hesitate to contact the Parent Coordinator at your child’s school.
You should ensure that your child attends the SES programs which you have selected in order for him/her to receive the maximum benefit from this academic assistance.
Will the City provide transportation to SES program providers?
No. School districts are not required to provide or pay for transportation. Therefore, select a provider that is conveniently located to the school or your home.
What if I am not satisfied with the Provider that I have selected for my child?
Contact your child’s school or the SES program office about any problems you have with the provider. The NYCDOE will work with you to ensure that the provider you have selected for your child is responsive to your concerns.
Where can I get more information?
To learn more about Supplemental Educational Services in your area, you may contact:
- School-based parent coordinators and/or guidance counselors. Call the City’s 311 hotline if you don't know their numbers
- Visit the DOE website at http://www.nyc.gov/schools/nclb
You are encouraged to attend the SES orientation session at your child’s school for parents regarding eligibility and the selection process. Your child’s school may hold a provider fair where you can learn more about the programs available for your child.