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Considering the Sibling Experience when Supporting Families in Early Intervention
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Inclusion settings for CA.3-5 year olds lag behind national numbers

California lags far behind the national average in serving students (3-5 years) in inclusive settings according to a recent report, "Potential Fiscal Barriers to Prekindergarten Through Third Grade Inclusion for Students with Disabilities" by the CA. Department of Education, Special Education Division. More Information

California serves only 29% of these students in an inclusive, regular early childhood program, compared to 40% nationwide.

One of the major recommendations particularly relevant to families and providers in CA Early Start include: "Partnership with the California Department of Developmental Services to develop parent-friendly resources on transition services, including the difference between Part C and Part B services, eligibility for services after a child turns three, and an overview of transition processes and transition timelines"

A recent review of the report is a powerful recommendation from the ARC of California, "The Arc of California believes, however, that the most critical component in overcoming exclusion in schools is to make the voice of the parents heard throughout the educational system."

ACTION:
What can you as a provider do to address this? What do you need to make this step happen?
Share your comments to [email protected]

Resources:
Check out IDA Policy page, Advocacy tools on the website, www.idaofcal.org
Preschool through Third Grade (P-3) Alignment Preschool through Third Grade (P-3) Alignment - Grade Spans (CA Dept of Education)
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