SUBJECT: Transition of Children into Head Start.

PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVE:  

To ensure successful transition of special needs children into Head Start.

OPERATIONAL PROCEDURES:

A.     To ensure a child’s success in Head Start: all new children enrolling into Head Start with a current IFSP/IEP will have a meeting prior to their starting the program, in order to develop a Transition Plan.

1.         The transition team will include a Head Start teacher, a Special   Education representative, the parent, and the Eligibility and Disabilities Coordinator. All members will contribute to the development of the Transition Plan.

2.         The Transition team will review the child’s IFSP/IEP and discuss with the parents their questions or concerns regarding the program.

3.         As part of the transition plan, any accommodations that are needed for the enrolling child will be in place prior to the child starting, as in accordance with the IFSP/IEP.

4.         Plans will also be made for program staff to have the needed information and training associated with any unfamiliar disabilities.

5.         The Transition Plan will be distributed to the parents, Special Education, the Eligibility and Disabilities Coordinator and a copy will be placed in the child’s file.

6.         Parents will be encouraged to visit the classroom prior to the child starting and bring any further questions or concerns back to the transition team.          

 edited 03/14/2008