Preschoolers suspected of having a disability participate in a comprehensive evaluation process designed to identify developmental delays as well as individual strengths and
needs. The process begins with a referral and requires parental consent, ensuring that families are fully informed and actively involved throughout.
A multidisciplinary team conducts evaluations using age-appropriate assessments, observations, and parent interviews. All areas of development are reviewed, including cognitive functioning, speech and language, motor skills, social-emotional development, adaptive skills, and, when appropriate, hearing and vision. Based on the results, the team prepares detailed evaluation reports and works collaboratively with parents to
determine eligibility for special education services and to develop individualized supports that promote each child’s growth and readiness for learning.
A Special Education Itinerant Teacher (SEIT) works one-on-one with your child to implement the goals outlined in their Individualized Education Program (IEP). Instruction and support are individualized to meet your child’s unique needs and may focus on early learning skills, communication, social-emotional
development, daily living skills, and improving attention and participation in the classroom. The overall goal is to help your child successfully engage in their preschool program and learn alongside their peers with confidence and growing independence.
A Special Class in an Integrated Setting (SCIS) is a preschool classroom that includes an equal number of students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and typically developing peers. The classroom team consists of a general education teacher, a New York State–certified special education teacher, and two teacher assistants.
The curriculum is developed by the host site and implemented by the general education teacher. In addition to providing instructional support and modifications, the special education teacher collaborates with classroom staff and is responsible for maintaining communication with the Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE), as well as completing required documentation, including quarterly progress reports for families.
Families of all students are encouraged to actively participate in their child’s educational experience, fostering collaboration and supporting student success.