Timeline for applying to special needs pre-schools

Im asking way in advance (daughter just turned two) but should i be waiting until packets are sent to schools that we are interested in? Ive heard that if i wait until then, we wont get placement because schools like Little Village have a super long wait list. When exactly should i be contacting these schools ? I dont want to get wait listed for a year and not get placement. My daughter has an autism diagnosis fyi.

TIA!

Re: Timeline for applying to special needs pre-schools

I don't think you can really do anything until your CPSE meeting and there is a recommendation for a special needs pre-school. In my case my son was in the center based EI program at LV and got into the pre-school program. However, i am not sure if they have the center based EI program anymore. I would think you could still tour though and indicate your interest to different schools.

Timeline for applying to special needs pre-schools

You need to wait for your CPSE meeting. Schools will not let you tour or "reserve" a spot until they get the OK from CPSE. You can though do your research on the different schools and have your list of places you want your packets to go too. If you are on a waiting list for a school of your choice, you will get services at home until the spot opens up.

Re: Timeline for applying to special needs pre-schools

I respectfully disagree with PP. I went to visit schools way before our meeting and they did a screening and held a spot for him. My meeting kept getting postponed and I would call them frantically and they repeatedly assured me they were still holding the spot.The very desirable schools fill up quickly. There was a family touringy son's school recently and the director was saying how they were full and would put the little girl on a waitlist and the parents were so bummed. I would tell anyone to start touring early and make connections. Good luck!

Timeline for applying to special needs pre-schools

I'm glad it worked out for the pp but technically the schools are not allowed to let you tour until after your CPSE meeting and they are not allowed to hold your spot. If they are saying they are and you have not not had your meeting and another person comes in that had their meeting already you will get bumped no matter what they are saying. I am speaking about Suffolk County though so other counties may be different. I agree though that you should definitely network and see what is out there so you already have your top schools in mind for when you start touring.

Timeline for applying to special needs pre-schools

Thank you to everyone for clarifying! This is all new to me and want to make sure im being proactive:)

Re: Timeline for applying to special needs pre-schools

Many schools won't even let you tour until you have had evals or a meeting....when is her third birthday? I know LV gives priority to those who go there for EI.....GL!