Paul V. Sherlock Center on Disabilities

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Early Childhood Transitions

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The purpose of this initiative is to strengthen and improve the Rhode Island transition system supporting children and their families moving from an Early Intervention Program to Special Education Services, or to other early care and education programs.

In Rhode Island, the transition process is administered by two state agencies. The Department of Health administers the Early Intervention program under Part C of IDEA and the Department of Education administers the Preschool Special Education programs under Part B. The differences between the two systems can make this process a challenging and anxiety-producing time for families. Not all children exiting Early Intervention are eligible for special support services though Part B. Through this initiative, the Sherlock Center will partner with providers like Head Start and other community options.

Objectives:

To provide and coordinate training and technical assistance at the community and state level based on priorities identified through a multilevel needs assistance process;
To develop and disseminates materials and resources to support all participants in the process (families. EI staff, school district personnel);
To develop a network of community practitioners and family leaders to provide a forum for sharing successful strategies and innovative practices across programs and districts;
To build a constituency around the belief that a successful transition concludes with a child well supported in inclusionary settings;
To support families' natural ability to prioritize and to utilize their advocacy skills in decision-making situations.

For more information on Early Childhood Transition contact:
Maureen Whelan
mwhelan@ric.edu
(401) 456-4735 (Voice)
(401) 456-8773 (TT)

Ester Brito
ebrito@ric.edu
(401) 456-2771 (Voice)

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