What is Preschool Special Education?

Preschool Special Education programs support children, age three- to five-years-old, who have a disability that affects their learning. This includes a delay or disorder in one or more areas of childhood development:

• Talking/Understanding
• Walking/Movement
• Hearing
• Vision
• Other concerns that make it harder for a child to learn

Under the oversight of the New York State Department of Education, local school districts manage these Special Education Preschool services. New York State and Monroe County fund Preschool Special Education. There is no cost for families.

How do I know if my child is eligible?

Every school district has a Committee on Preschool Special Education, or CPSE.  If your child is participating in Early Intervention, we can help refer your child to your local CPSE with your permission. This committee will work with you to evaluate your child and determine if he or she is eligible.

If your child is not participating in Early Intervention, but you are concerned about his or her development, you can make your own referral to the CPSE in your local school district. Click here to find your local CPSE contact.

Preschool Special Education Dictionary

When you start looking into Preschool Special Education, you will likely find many unfamiliar terms and initials. Find help understanding what these mean here.