Early Childhood Special Education Program
Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) – Laurel Public Schools
Laurel Public Schools is committed to identifying and supporting young children with disabilities through its Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) program. In accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), the district provides special education and related services for eligible children ages 3 through 5 who require specially designed instruction to access and participate in early learning opportunities.
Determining Eligibility
Children referred to the ECSE program participate in a comprehensive evaluation to determine whether they meet Montana and federal eligibility criteria for special education services. Eligibility is based on both the presence of a qualifying disability and the educational need for specially designed instruction.
A child may qualify under one or more of the following disability categories:
- Developmental Delay
- Autism
- Deafness
- Hearing Impairment
- Visual Impairment
- Orthopedic Impairment
- Emotional Disturbance
- Traumatic Brain Injury
- Specific Learning Disability
- Cognitive Disability
- Speech or Language Impairment
- Other Health Impairment
Child Find and Developmental Screenings
As part of Laurel Public Schools' Child Find responsibilities, the district actively identifies children who may have developmental delays or disabilities. Families, physicians, childcare providers, preschool programs, and community agencies are encouraged to refer children when developmental concerns arise.
Developmental screenings for children ages 3 through 5 are offered throughout the school year. Screening results, parent input, developmental history, and any available medical or educational information are reviewed to determine whether additional evaluation is appropriate.
If the screening indicates a possible disability, the district may recommend a comprehensive evaluation to determine eligibility for Early Childhood Special Education services. Parents are active partners throughout the referral, evaluation, and eligibility process and are involved in all decisions regarding their child's educational program.
Laurel Public Schools is dedicated to providing early intervention and specialized instruction that supports each child's growth, development, and successful transition into kindergarten and future educational settings.