Understanding Special Education for Children in Bronx, New York

Learn about special education services available for children in Bronx, New York including Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), Special Education Itinerant Teacher (SEIT) services, and related services.

Understanding Special Education for Children in Bronx, New York

Special education teachers provide tailored part-time instruction to a group of up to eight children, either in the general education classroom or elsewhere in the school. The Preschool Special Education Committee (CPSE) offers special education services to children aged 3 to 5, depending on their individual needs. These services can be provided in any early childhood setting, such as a preschool program, Head Start, a parent-selected day care center, a hospital, or even at home. District 75 provides highly specialized educational support to students with significant challenges in a wide variety of settings and locations in New York City.

Every student in the class has an Individualized Education Program (IEP) with needs that cannot be met in a general education classroom. If the child is determined to qualify for special education services, the CPSE team will develop an IEP. All students with disabilities who require special education services have IEPs. Programs should consider ways to share general information about preschool special education services, such as the Special Education Itinerant Teacher (SEIT) and related services. You will receive direct or indirect special education teacher support services (SETSS) from a special education teacher.

In addition, Lehman College offers bilingual outreach for those who wish to work with bilingual students and advanced certificates in special education for candidates with master's degrees in general education who wish to prepare for special education. New York City offers a variety of affordable early childhood programs for eligible children from birth to five years of age. If your preschooler may need special education programs or services, use this model letter to request an evaluation. The confidentiality protections provided in the Federal Education for Persons with Disabilities Act (IDEA) and the Educational Rights and Family Privacy Act (FERPA) require that the content of all IEPs be kept confidential. SEIT services must always work to facilitate the child's participation in activities with other children in the early childhood classroom. We defend the commitment to social justice in educational reform and anti-racist pedagogy as essential elements for teacher development. Special education is an important part of ensuring that all children have access to quality learning opportunities.

In Bronx, New York, there are many resources available for families seeking special education services for their children. The CPSE team can help families understand their child's individual needs and develop an IEP that meets those needs. Lehman College provides bilingual outreach and advanced certificates in special education for those who wish to become certified special educators. Additionally, New York City offers a variety of affordable early childhood programs for eligible children from birth to five years of age.

It is important for families to understand their rights when it comes to special education services and how they can access them. Knowing how to request an evaluation and what confidentiality protections are provided by federal laws can help families make informed decisions about their child's educational future. By understanding these resources and rights, families can ensure that their child receives the best possible educational experience.