Transition and Referral to Preschool Special Education Services for Children
2 years 9 months to 5 years old

Transition from Early Intervention Program (EIP) to Preschool Special Education Program

Children currently receiving early intervention services may require ongoing support. With parental consent, the EIP Continuity Services Coordinator will assist with the transition process. You must obtain a service evaluation through your local school district’s Commission on Preschool and Special Education (CPSE).

Direct referral to the Commission on Preschool and Special Education (CPSE)

If your child is between the ages of 2.9 months and 5 years and has never received early intervention services, the parent/legal guardian may go directly to the CPSE of the local school district for an evaluation. This evaluation determines whether your child is eligible for services that support their educational needs.

Important Dates for Commencing End Dates for CPSE and EI Certifications

*Eligibility for continued early intervention services will end the day before the child’s 3rd birthday if the following three conditions are not met. (See above diagram)

• If your child is determined to be eligible for CPSE services before their third birthday
• A CPSE meeting was held and an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) was drawn up
• Child demonstrates ongoing eligibility for EIP according to the Office of Early Intervention Guidance Memorandum and Regulation

Commission on Preschool and Special Education (CPSE) Process Overview

-Parent/Legal Guardian:

1. Register your child with your local school district

• Birth certificate with raised stamp
• proof of residence
• A recent health assessment with immunizations from your child’s healthcare provider

2. Refer the child to preschool special education for evaluation

3. Complete the packet provided by the district

– The school district will provide a copy of the Procedural Safeguards Notice that provides a full explanation of the parent’s rights.

– A CPSE meeting will be held with the parent/legal guardian to review the assessment results

-If Eligible: The Commission recommends special education programs and/or services and creates an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) that specifies educational goals and services.

Click here for school district registration and preschool special education contact information

More information about CPSE and custody:

Transition from early intervention services

“Guide for Determining Eligibility and Preschool Special Education Programs and/or Services for Preschool Students with Disabilities”

Helpful resources for CPSE:

Long Island Family and Community Engagement (FACE) Center (516) 413-4562. Register for training by email – POST-CCI@liu.edu

Help Me Grow- Long Island Call or text (516) 548-8924 or email info@hmgli.org, www.helpmegrowny.org/long-island/