CHILDCARE
By law, if your child qualifies under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), he/she is entitled to special instruction and related services in his/her preschool through your state. The Preschool Services program in your state ensures the provision of a Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) to all eligible children at no cost to their families and in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE). LRE means that young children with disabilities should receive services in typical community-based early childhood settings whenever possible and only go to more restrictive or specialized settings when their individual needs require it.
“Who is rich? He/she who rejoices in his/her portion.”
Transition Planning
To qualify for accommodations, your child must be between the ages of 3 and 5 and have a disability that falls under one of the following categories set out by the Federal guidelines:
To become eligible for these services, a child must be screened and assessed by your school system. Based on the findings, an Individualized Education Program (IEP) Team meets to determine eligibility and recommendations, which will be documented in an IEP to ensure the child gets what he/she needs to thrive in his/her educational setting.
It is important to note that according to IDEA, “parentally placed private school children” with disabilities may have different benefits available to them. The local education agencies (LEAs) give a proportionate amount of money each year from the federal government to provide services for these children. This means that some “parentally placed private school children” will receive services while others will not. The LEAs are required to meet with the private institutions and administrators in their area at least annually to discuss the plan for special education services. Since the funds provided for children in private schools are limited, parents typically pay out of pocket.
Please note: The above does not refer to private schools designed specifically for children with learning differences.
Local Resources
Broward County Public Schools Exceptional Student Learning Support
Serves more than 32,000 students with disabilities and offers a free and appropriate public education in compliance with the federally mandated IDEA. A continuum of services and programs are available to meet the individual needs of students, ages 3 to 22, who are eligible for special education and related services. This continuum of services may be provided in a variety of settings, which include general education classrooms, resource rooms, specialized day schools, and hospital homebound. Eligible students are provided supports and/or services as per their Individual Education Plan (IEP) that are based on each child’s unique needs, as related to their present levels of academic achievement and functional performance.
Quick Links
Florida Department of Education Bureau of Exceptional Education and Student Services
