Preschool Disabilities
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A prekindergarten (Pre-K) child age three – five who has a sensory, physical, Communication, cognitive, or emotional condition which significantly affects the attainment of normal developmental milestones is eligible for the Preschool Disabilities Program.  The aim of the program is to meet the unique needs of each eligible child by providing a free appropriate public education in a least restrictive environment.

In the Preschool Disabilities Program, children are active learners, supported and challenged by highly qualified teachers.  The content of preschoolers’ learning is guided by developmental, culturally appropriate practices which nurture each child’s physical, social-emotional, self-help, communication, and cognitive development.  Recognizing that a young child learns best through hands-on experiences, the program involves innovative learning opportunities in the educational environment in which children take part in group activities, socialize during meals, develop self-care skills, and exercise large muscles during outdoor play. 

The Galileo Preschool system links assessment, instructional planning, individualization, and progress monitoring and is aligned with Florida’s School Readiness and Voluntary Pre-K (VPK).  Preschool learning materials create engaging, fun learning experiences with a balance between child-directed and teacher-directed activities.  Classrooms incorporate materials and experiences reflective of homes and communities.  Parents are provided opportunities to participate in the classroom, observe their child during learning activities, and extend children’s learning at home. 

Placement in the Preschool Disabilities Program is based on the needs of the child as determined by the Individual Educational Plan (IEP) Team.  A range of service delivery options is available to meet the child’s special needs, including: collaborative consultation; resource “walk-in” services; integrative/inclusive services; special classes; and homebound/hospitalized instruction.  Speech-language therapy, “walk-in” services, is available at each elementary school.   Pre-K inclusion and special classes are located at many of Collier’s elementary schools.  School assignment is based on the child’s residence zone school and IEP services.  Curb-to-curb bus transportation is available to children with disabilities participating in Collier’s school programs.

Identification, Screening, Referral, Evaluation

The Florida Diagnostic and Learning Resources System (FDLRS) serves as the school district’s single point of contact for Collier parents of a child suspected of having a delay or disability. 

For a child who is five years of age or younger on September 2 of the school year, the FDLRS Child Find Specialist conducts a developmental and sensory screening to identify any potential area of educational need.  If a need is identified, the FDLRS Child Find Specialist refers the child to the school district’s Pre-K Assessment Team for a formal individual evaluation to determine a child’s eligibility and need for special education services.   FDLRS Child Find and the Pre-K Assessment Team conduct screening/evaluations at Veterans Memorial Elementary School in Naples and Highlands Elementary School in Immokalee.  Contact information is below.

For a child who is five years of age on or before September 1 of the school year, and suspected of having a delay or disability, the parent is referred to the residence zoned elementary public school.

Contact Information:

Karen Stelmacki, ESE Director
(239) 377-0108
StelmaKa@collierschools.com