| Community-based Preschool Inclusion Services, a Baltimore County Public School service, provide educational support to preschool children in their natural environment including local preschools and childcare settings. The service provider is a certified special education teacher or para-professional trained to modify and adapt curriculum and materials, as well as address behavioral concerns. |
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While the inclusion teacher may occasionally work one-on-one with a student, the primary focus is to address the child’s needs in as natural environment as possible. There is no need for the classroom teacher to create any sort of special circumstances while services are being provided. The inclusion teacher welcomes classroom noise, interruptions, peer involvement, and changes in routine as “teachable moments.”
WHO RECEIVES SERVICES?
Preschool children within Baltimore County who have an Individualized Education Program (IEP) indicating services be provided in a community setting. Services are provided in the least restrictive environment for the child. This may be a community preschool, child care setting, Head Start program or public library group. The team may also consider other options, such as services in a classroom only with other children who have disabilities, or in a one-to-one setting with a specialist. Other “related” services such as speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy are also discussed and included on the IEP if needed.
HOW OFTEN ARE SERVICES PROVIDED?
The amount of service will be determined by an IEP team and will vary according to each child’s individual needs.
WHAT SUPPORTS ARE PROVIDED TO EARLY CHILDHOOD CLASSROOMS?
Professional development for early childhood providers and teachers throughout the county to promote the use of evidence-based practices throughout the early childhood community.