The following are basic questions and answers concerning PPCD issues. More questions are always welcome. E-mail Robin White at robin.white@esc20.net for a response.
What is PPCD?
PPCD stands for Preschool Programs for Children with Disabilities. It is important to remember that the second “P” represents “Programs” and not “Place." PPCD programs are not limited to a self-contained room on an elementary or early childhood campus in which students with disabilities are cared for all day. Districts should offer a full continuum of services to educate young children with disabilities. This means offering services to preschoolers with disabilities in a variety of settings based on the child's individual needs, and include being educated alongside typical same-aged peers.
What does “3 is 3” mean?
Children who have been identified as in need of special education services, or are suspected of needing special education services prior to age three, must be provided services on or before their third birthday. An Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) committee meeting determines these services.
How does a child qualify for PPCD services?
Children qualify for PPCD services through the special education referral process. Once a referral is made, a district has 60 calendar days in which to assess a child and 30 calendar days after the assessment has been completed to hold an ARD meeting. The ARD committee determines if the child is eligible for services and what those services should be by constructing an Individual Education Plan (IEP) for the child. Individuals who suspect that a child may have a disability that would have an adverse effect on that child’s ability to learn should either contact their local school district or call Reach and Teach at 1-888-480-KIDS.
Can a child be in PPCD and Title I Prekindergarten or Head Start at the same time?
Yes. It is important to remember, however, that a child’s ARD committee determines placement. If a child is eligible to attend Title I Prekindergarten or Head Start, the child may be served in those classes. Children may even be placed in a Prekindergarten or Head Start class if they are not eligible, as long as they do not prevent an eligible child from attending. It is important to remember that 10% of Head Start students should be students with disabilities.
Can a child be in PPCD and private school at the same time?
A child may dual enroll in a district and a private school until the student’s fifth birthday. The child’s ARD committee must determine the manner in which services would be provided to such a student. Upon the child’s fifth birthday, the child no longer has the right to dual enroll and the district is required only to provide indirect services to the child.
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