Spectrum Arch, Inc.Between age 3 and kindergarten, help for children with delays or disabilities comes from your school district, even though your child isn't in school yet. The district's Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE) runs it.
Who it's for
Children ages 3 to 5 who may have a disability that affects their learning or development. Many come from Early Intervention, but children who never had EI can be referred too.
Making a referral
- Coming from Early Intervention: your EI service coordinator helps plan the move and makes the referral with your consent, ideally months before the third birthday.
- New to services: write to the CPSE chairperson in the school district where you live. Describe your concerns and ask for an evaluation. Keep a dated copy.
The evaluation
Your child gets a multidisciplinary evaluation, at no direct cost to your family. You choose the evaluation site from a list of approved evaluators the district provides.
Services
If your child is eligible, the CPSE develops an IEP with you. Services may include:
- Related services such as speech, occupational, or physical therapy, delivered where your child already spends time
- Special education itinerant teacher (SEIT) support
- An integrated or special class in an approved preschool program
The law favors the least restrictive setting, meaning as much time with typically developing peers as is appropriate.
Moving to kindergarten
Before kindergarten, responsibility moves from the CPSE to the district's Committee on Special Education (CSE). Expect a "turning 5" review. Visit kindergarten options, bring your preschool providers' reports, and ask how services will continue so there's no gap.
Sources: NYSED, Preschool Evaluations; NYSED, Section 200.16 Preschool Programs; Advocates for Children, Guide to Preschool Special Education.