Early Childhood Special Education

Evidence Step: Outputs

Department: Education

Priority Area: Education Quality and Access

Program Description

IDEA 619 Preschool special education is a state and federally mandated and funded program for children ages three to five (not in kindergarten) who are experiencing challenges in their learning and development and meet eligibility criteria for special education and/or related services. Early childhood special education addresses individual needs within the context of inclusive, developmentally-appropriate early learning experiences including early literacy, math, play, and social areas.

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Details

Program Demographic: Infancy / Early Childhood, Persons with Disability

Delivery Setting: Organization / Business / Local Government, Home, Hospital / Treatment Center, Residential Facility, School

Current Participants: 9,613

Outputs

Percentage of students receiving services in a general education environment

2025: 43.6%

2024: 40.9%

2023: 41.1%

Percentage of students receiving services in a special education environment

2025: 56.4%

2024: 59.1%

2023: 58.9%

Total number of classrooms serving 619 preschool students

2024: 500

Total number of preschool students with an IEP (individualized education plan)

2025: 9,613

2024: 16,056

2023: 12,849

Logic Model

If we provide inclusive individualized special education services and instruction, including early literacy, math, play, and social areas, to eligible three- to five-year-old students (not in kindergarten) within high quality and developmentally appropriate environments, then we will ensure that our youngest unique and diverse learners across the state have the necessary supports and services needed to be the most prepared for kindergarten.