Early Childhood Special Education
Our program is designed to support every child’s unique strengths and needs through individualized instruction, nurturing environments and early interventions. Children learn through play-based, hands-on experiences in both inclusive and small-group settings, helping them develop communication, social-emotional, motor and early academic skills.
General Information
Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE)
ECSE is a half-day program for children ages 3–5 with identified special needs and an active individualized education plan (IEP).
Each classroom is supported by a certified teacher and a paraprofessional. Students who qualify receive speech/language therapy, occupational therapy (OT) and physical therapy (PT) during the school day.
Child Find
If you suspect your child may have developmental delays, please call (260) 467-1110.
Children are eligible for services starting on their third birthday.
Transportation will be provided for students who qualify.
Key Areas
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Individualized Support: Each child has an IEP with goals and services tailored to their needs.
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Play-Based Learning: Focus on social, emotional, motor and early academic skills through hands-on activities.
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Inclusive Setting: Opportunities to learn and play with peers of all abilities.
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Therapies Provided: Speech, occupational therapy (OT), physical therapy (PT) and more based on the child’s IEP.
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Small Class Sizes: More individual attention with trained staff.
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Consistent Routine: Structured day with time for learning, play, meals and rest.
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Family Involvement: Regular communication and teamwork with families.
Daily Rhythm
Half-Day
Morning
8:50 - 11:30 AM
Children arrive, have breakfast and ease into the day with a group meeting. Small group activities leads into their first recess, followed by another whole group learning lesson and free choice time. The morning wraps up with recess time.
Afternoon
12:50 - 3:30 PM
The afternoon begins with lunch followed by school specials. After specials wrap up, children prepare for rest time and a light snack afterwards. They finish the day with an afternoon daily reflection and read aloud before pack-up time and dismissal.
The afternoon begins with lunch followed by school specials. After specials wrap up, children prepare for rest time and a light snack afterwards. They finish the day with an afternoon daily reflection and read aloud before pack-up time and dismissal.
