Transition and Referral to Preschool Education Services

Transition & Referral to Preschool Special Education Services for Children
2 years 9 months - 5 Years of Age

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

Children currently receiving early intervention services may need continued support. With parental consent, your EIP Ongoing Service Coordinator will assist you with the transition process. You will need to obtain an evaluation for services through the Committee for Preschool Special Education (CPSE) at your local school district.

Direct Referral to Committee for Preschool Special Education (CPSE)

If your child is between age 2 years 9 months up to 5 years of age and has never received early intervention services, parents/legal guardians may go directly to the CPSE at their local school district to request an evaluation. The evaluation will determine if your child is eligible to receive services to support their educational needs.

Important Dates for Starting CPSE and EI Eligibility End Date

Important Dates for Starting CPSE and EI Eligibility End Dates Chart

*Eligibility for continuation of early intervention services ends on the day before a child's third birthday unless the following three conditions are met: (See above chart)

  • Child is determined eligible for CPSE services prior to date of third birthday
  • CPSE meeting has been held and an Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) has been written
  • Child demonstrates continued eligibility for EIP in accordance with Bureau of Early Intervention Guidance Memorandum and Regulations

Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE) Process Overview

-Parent/Legal Guardian:

  1. Registers child at their local school district

  • birth certificate with raised seal
  • proof of residency
  • recent health assessment with immunizations from your child’s health care provider 

  2. Refers child to Preschool Special Education for an evaluation

  3. Completes the packet provided by district

-School District provides a copy of the Procedural Safeguard Notice, which provides a full explanation of parent’s rights 

-CPSE Meeting is held with the parent/legal guardian to review the evaluation results 

-If eligible: Committee recommends a special education program and/or services and develops an Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) specifying the educational goals and services

Click Here for Contact Information for School District Registration and Preschool Special Education

Detailed Information on CPSE and Parental Rights:

Transition from Early Intervention Services

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

Resources That Can Help You with CPSE:

The Long Island Family and Community Engagement (FACE) Centers (516) 413-4562. Register for trainings by emailing - 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/