Preschool Special Education (Part B 619)

Preschool Special Education Guidance includes federal and state resources to support high-quality preschool special education services and decision-making for young children with disabilities.

Preschool Environments (LRE) provides information and resources related to the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) Requirements for young children receiving preschool special education services. In early childhood, LRE means that children with disabilities are educated and participate alongside peers without disabilities in inclusive early learning environments to the maximum extent appropriate. This page includes state and federal guidance, technical assistance resources, and tools to support teams in making individualized placement decisions and implementing inclusive preschool practices. Resources from the Office of Special Education Programs, the Division for Early Childhood, and the Nebraska Department of Education are available to support educators, administrators, service providers, and families in understanding and implementing preschool LRE requirements.

Preschool Positive Practices includes resources and guidance to support inclusive, supportive, and developmentally appropriate practices in early childhood special education settings. This page provides information related to the Pyramid Model, multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS), social-emotional development, and evidence-based inclusive practices for young children. Resources addressing suspension and expulsion practices in preschool settings are also included.

Preschool Transportation includes information and guidance related to transportation services for preschool children with disabilities in Nebraska. Transportation is considered a related service under IDEA, and every preschool child with a disability in Nebraska is eligible to receive transportation if needed to access special education services.

Transition to Kindergarten includes resources and guidance to support preschool children with disabilities and their families as they transition into kindergarten services and settings. Effective transition planning helps ensure continuity of supports, services, and educational experiences while preparing children for success in their new learning environment.

Assistive Technology includes resources and guidance related to the consideration and use of assistive technology (AT) for preschool children with disabilities. Assistive technology devices and services can support young children’s access, participation, communication, learning, mobility, and independence within early childhood environments and routines. This page includes state and federal guidance, tools, and resources to support IEP teams in considering, selecting, and implementing assistive technology supports for preschool children.