Individual Education Program (IEP) teams consider service delivery options based on the needs of each student. Teams may consider regular, resource or separate settings which are available at every school for students participating in the North Carolina Standard Course of Study. IEP teams may also consider self-contained classes at public separate schools for students with significant behavioral challenges or students with significant cognitive disabilities who participate in the North Carolina Extended Content Standards.CMS provides comparable services to students identified with a disability who enroll from another district. Parents should contact the student's home school to initiate these services.
Programs and Services
The Individual with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) of 2004 ensures that all eligible children with a disability who are in need of special education receive a free appropriate public education. IDEA mandates that eligible students receive individualized instruction specially designed to meet the unique needs of the learner. To learn about the school-aged programs available in CMS, click HERE. To learn more about the preschool programs available in CMS, click HERE.
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools is committed to providing developmentally appropriate practices within high quality early childhood services to preschoolers within the district. Our Preschool Special Education Program works collaboratively with CMS’ Pre-Kindergarten Program and elementary schools to identify, place, and provide services for eligible children. We partner with families and the community in order to build a strong foundation for the educational future of the young children we serve.Preschool Special Education Services are designed for children ages 3 to 5 with disabilities (not age eligible to attend Kindergarten) and in need of specially designed instruction. The goal is to provide the support these children need at an early age, so by the time they enter Kindergarten, they have the support, services and skills needed to be successful.Preschool Special Education Services are based on the Individualized Education Program that is written for each child. Goals and objectives are written according to an educational model. Any related services that the child receives are designed to support the educational goals.Preschool children with disabilities are served in a variety of settings and natural environments which may include home, child care centers, private child care homes, Head Start, NC Pre-K, private preschool programs and public school classrooms.
If you suspect your child has a disability and may need special education services, and your child is 3-5 years of age, and not age eligible to attend Kindergarten, you may request to start the referral process. If you have questions regarding your preschool aged child, contact the child find office at (980) 343-2720
