Start to the School Year
Ensuring a well-planned and organized start to the school year is critical for children with special education needs. Schools keep families informed about the requirements and procedures necessary for September enrolment.
A Sample School Checklist
Please see below a school checklist for entry of students with special education needs in Kindergarten:
- Register in January to allow for a well-planned transition
- Complete the registration form and the Kindergarten Parent Questionnaire
- With parental consent, an observation visit to the preschool setting is arranged for school staff and appropriate support staff
- In-school case conferences are arranged, with parental consent, to discuss student's strengths and needs with relevant professionals in attendance (e.g. Home and Community Care Support Services, Erin Oak Kids, Reach Out Centre for Kids (ROCK), Halton Region Children’s Developmental Services, Halton Support Services, preschool staff )
- Referrals are made to Erin Oak for Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy or Speech Services, as appropriate. If required, a school safety assessment will be scheduled to ensure safe access to all areas of the school and programing
- In-school case manager assigned
- With parental consent, relevant assessments and/or discharge reports from preschool settings and services are collected
- Consultation from preschool services is available upon request following the start of school
- On-going case conferences are held as needed
- Communication with parents is maintained