SECTION 11: PLACEMENT

If it is determined that your child is eligible for services, an IEP (Individualized Education Program) will be developed. For the first IEP, the school must have your signature approving the program before your child may start in school. 

The program that may be recommended for your child is likely to differ from early intervention activities. Preschool programs are almost always offered in a classroom environment. Related services, such as physical, occupational, and speech/language therapy goals may be embedded in the program, as established for your child's school program. Emphasis will be placed on preschool activities than on individual therapies. Your child may need modification to an activity. Any modification may be determined for your child and would be determined by the Individualized Education Program Team and needs to be documented in the IEP.

State laws and codes mandate that school programs follow the traditional September - June calendar, unless your child needs an extended school year. Extended school year services must be available to your child if your child will lose skills during the summer vacation and will not recoup these skills in a reasonable length of time. Preschool programs with special education services must operate at least ten hours a week. An individual child's program schedule is based on the child's needs and will be outlined and documented in the IEP.

You are encouraged to visit preschool programs before a placement decision is made. Problems sometimes arise in the summer when many programs are not operating. If your child will turn three in the summer or early fall be sure to contact the school district before June, so visits can be made while school is still in session. 

As parents, you are guaranteed a voice in determining the appropriate program for your child. These decisions are made collaboratively with the CST. NJAC 6A:14 (New Jersey's Administrative Code for Special Education) outlines placement options available to children served through preschool disabled programs within school districts. Districts are aware of these placement options and they should be discussed at the IEP meeting. Working collaboratively with your CST, you should be able to find a program option to meet the needs of your child.