PWN Template — Compensatory Services
Source: "Sample PWN for Comp Services.docx" — Shannon Flaherty SharePoint share, 2026-01-09. Localized to this repo on 2026-05-10 from the actual document so we no longer depend on Shannon's invite-only SharePoint share staying live.
When to use: Documenting compensatory services owed to a student because the LEA failed to deliver IEP-required service hours (e.g., extended provider absence, scheduling failure, school closure not made up).
SPSM/SEDS dropdown
Select: "LEA is proposing to continue Provision of FAPE"
PWN field-by-field language
Description of the proposed or refused action
An IEP Team meeting was held on [DATE] via [phone / in-person / video]. Compensatory [service type — e.g., speech/language, OT, specialized instruction] services were discussed. Upon review of the data, the team agreed that [Student] is eligible for and should receive compensatory services.
Explanation of why the LEA is proposing or refusing the action
The LEA is proposing eligibility for compensatory services due to the absence of [service type] services during school year [YEAR]. [Student] needs compensatory services to address ongoing needs.
Description of each evaluation procedure, assessment, record, or report used as a basis for the proposed or refused action
The IEP team reviewed classroom data, progress reports, teacher observations, and parent input as a basis for the proposed action.
Description of other options considered by the IEP Team and reason(s) for rejecting those options
No other options were considered.
Description of other factors related to the proposal or refusal
No other factors apply.
Drafting notes (added by us — not in Shannon's original)
- Specify the service type, hours owed, and how they'll be made up. Shannon's template is intentionally generic; for the actual PWN, plug in (a) which service was missed, (b) over what date range, (c) total hours owed, (d) the make-up plan (extended weekly sessions, summer block, after-school, outside provider).
- The "no other options were considered" line is Shannon's stock language. Per research/pwn-drafting-guide.md Part 2, this is one of the most-flagged compliance errors when used pro-forma. If you genuinely considered alternatives (different make-up format, partial recovery, declining comp services), name them. If you didn't, leave the stock line — but be aware reviewers may flag it.
- The "basis" element can be strengthened by citing specific dates and documents (e.g., "service log entries from October 12, 2025 through January 15, 2026 documenting absence of speech sessions"). Generic language like "classroom data, progress reports, teacher observations, and parent input" is Shannon's safe default.
- Comp services are NOT the same as ESY. ESY prevents future regression; comp services remedy past LEA failure. Don't conflate the rationale.
- Provide the PWN to the parent and log the communication in PS (Special Programs / SPSM contact log) — same as ESY-decline PWN workflow.
Connection to other docs
- Background research: research/pwn-drafting-guide.md §4B has scenario-by-scenario guidance for comp services PWNs (when required, content focus, common pitfalls).
- Original SharePoint pointer (in case you want to check for updates): comp-services-pwn-link.md.
- Parent communication log requirement: parent-communication-log.md.
Original SharePoint URL (for re-checking)
https://dck12-my.sharepoint.com/:w:/r/personal/shannon_flaherty_k12_dc_gov/Documents/Sample%20PWN%20for%20Comp%20Services.docx?d=wa81e5ba4fc324b71afc2e0cb2a718525
If Shannon updates her template, re-download the .docx and refresh this file.