Home and Hospital Teaching

Frequently Asked Questions 

1.  Who is eligible for home teaching services?

Students enrolled in the Prince George's County Public Schools are eligible. Eligible students do not include students who are home-schooled or parentally placed in private or parochial schools.  Excluded are students in home-based programs operated through the Office of Children, Youth and Families; the Maryland Infants and Toddlers Program for the birth through 2-year old disabled population.



2.  What is the process for referring a homebound/hospitalized student?

The following documentation is required:  Initial Contact and Referral (DSS-21) and Physician’s Verification (DSS-22).  A physician’s reverification form must be submitted every sixty (60) calendar days or sooner based on the initial term of service . The principal’s designee submits the documentation to the Office of Home and Hospital Teaching via interoffice “Pony” to OHSDC, Suite 202; or via FAX, 301-567- 4890; or via U.S. mail to Oxon Hill Staff Development Center, 7711 Livingston Road, Suite 202, Oxon Hill, MD  20745.

 

3.  When does home/hospital teaching begin?

Home teaching will begin within ten (10) days of receipt of the completed referral packet—the DSS-21 and DSS-22—in the Office of Home and Hospital Teaching.

 

4.  How many hours of services will the student receive?

Generally, a full-day student who is homebound and/or hospitalized will receive six hours per week.

 

5.  Where are students taught?

Students receive instructional services in the home, hospital, therapeutic center, and/or school.

 

6.  Can a pregnant student receive services?

Yes.  She may receive services for six weeks postpartum.

 

7.  What is the process for referring students with an emotional condition?

The principal’s designee submits the completed Initial Contact and Referral (DSS-21) and Physician’s Verification (DSS-22)  the Office of Home and Hospital Teaching.  In addition, the school psychologist reviews the DSS-22 so s/he may approve/disapprove services.  A conference will be held to develop a plan of action for the transition back into the student’s school program. 

 

8.  Who is responsible for giving the student the curriculum/assignments?

The school of enrollment is responsible for providing the books, assignments and instructional materials. 

 

9.  What happens when the school does not provide books/work for the student?

When textbooks and assignments are not provided, those courses and the student's instructional program will be the responsibility of the school. 

 

10.  Who is responsible for grades?

Refer to the plan of action, developed at the beginning of services.

11.  What if the student’s medical condition requires an extension of home and hospital services?

For services to continue after the initial determination of need, an updated physician’s verification is required.  The Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) requires verification of the need for home teaching at least every sixty (60) calendar days.

 

12.  Who is responsible for keeping the Physician’s Verification (DSS-22) current?

The parent and the principal’s designee are responsible for keeping track of dates and documentation.