Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE)

CONTACT US

Laurie Hume
ECSE Assistant Director
651-403-8350
laurie.hume@isd197.org

Joan Kritsas
ECSE Administrative Assistant
651-403-8376
Joan.Kritsas@isd197.org

ISD 197 Early Childhood Special Education Services are provided to children, ages birth to 6, who meet one or more criteria established by the Minnesota Department of Education. Children are identified through a multidisciplinary evaluation process. Areas of evaluation include developmental delay, speech/language delay or impairment, autism spectrum disorder, cognitive disabilities, emotional or behavioral dysregulation, physical impairment, hearing impairment, visual impairment, and delays resulting from traumatic brain injuries or other health disabilities.

To qualify for service, children must demonstrate a substantial delay in development or have a diagnosed physical or mental condition or disorder that has a high probability of resulting in developmental delay. A comprehensive evaluation determines whether children meet state entrance eligibility. 

Early Intervention Services for children ages birth to 3 are provided in natural environments, including home and childcare settings. Parents and caregivers are important partners in early intervention services.

Services for children ages 3-5 are provided in a variety of settings, including community-based preschool programs, Early Childhood Special Education classrooms, and individual or small group therapy. You can begin by making an Early Childhood Screening appointment at left (only if your child has not already been screened in ISD 197 or another school district).

MISSION
The goal of the Early Childhood Special Education Program is to promote success and help children achieve their greatest potential. Acknowledging the uniqueness of each child and family, the Early Childhood Special Education Programs strive to support, nurture, and work in partnership with young children with delays or disabilities and their families. Together, we work to develop individual education plans to provide specialized instruction that builds foundational skills through a variety of developmentally based activities.