Inclusive UPK

Yesterday, the New York State Education Department (NYSED) issued guidance to school districts about ensuring access to universal prekindergarten (PreK) to children with disabilities. NYSED’s guidance, found here: http://www.p12.nysed.gov/specialed/documents/school-district-responsibilities-for-preschool-inclusion-in-publicly-funded-prekindergarten-.pdf , emphasizes the importance of educating students with disabilities in the least restrictive environment (LRE) which includes district-operated prekindergarten programs that are close to home and enroll typically-developing peers.

Special education services that can be implemented within a universal PreK program include related services, such as speech-language therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, counseling, special transportation, and paraprofessional services; and Special Education Itinerant Teacher (SEIT) services. Additionally, NYSED’s guidance encourages school districts to explore the possibility of a Special Class in an Integrated Setting (SCIS) within the PreK classroom. The SCIS model is headed by a certified special education teacher and incorporates more students without Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) than students with IEPs.

If your school district operates a universal PreK program and your child has special needs, you may opt to dually enroll your child with both the Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE) and the universal PreK program. Complete our Contact Form at https://www.msrlegal.org/book-your-consultation for an initial consultation by email, and find out more about advocating for an appropriate preschool IEP.

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Happy July 4th Weekend,

Oroma

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