Expansion of 3-K in New York City

Last week, the New York City Department of Education (DOE) announced the expansion of its 3-K program. For children born in 2018, who are also New York City residents, 3-K programs will begin in the fall of 2021. In general, 3-K programs will resemble a full-school day program that follows the DOE’s academic calendar. Families who do no qualify for Head Start or Federal Child Care and Development Block Grant-funded programs may pay privately for after-care or summertime child care. 3-K programs are either partnerships between community-based organizations and the DOE, or operated or overseen by the DOE.

What does this mean for three year-olds with disabilities? It depends. 3-K by itself does not take the place of a preschool special education. If your child has a suspected or confirmed disability, you should refer him or her to the Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE) for an evaluation, regardless of whether your toddler received Early Intervention services through the Department of Health.

There are certain CPSE services that can take place within a 3-K program, such as Special Education Itinerant Teacher (SEIT) services, and related services, including speech therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy. Some 3-K programs may be better equipped to accommodate outside teachers and therapists than others, depending upon the facility’s size and set up.

Some children have more intensive learning needs, beyond what can be provided in a 3-K program, even with supplementary aids, supports, and related services. For those children, the specific preschool placement will be determined by the CPSE with input from the parent. Parents who disagree with the CPSE’s recommendations (or lack thereof) have the option of exercising their due process rights.

To explore your child’s preschool options, book a virtual consultation on my website, https://www.msrlegal.org/book-your-consultation . Also, follow me on Instagram @MSRLegalConsulting and Twitter @MSRLegalOroma .

Have an enjoyable week,

Oroma

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