Children all learn. They do not all learn in the same way or at the same pace, but they all do learn. Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) provides supports in early childhood education to ensure that all young children are provided a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE). A variety of settings provides the avenue to meet the needs of the individual child. Service providers are all fully credentialed in their area of expertise and provide learning opportunities that are carefully aligned to the child’s current level of development, the Texas Pre-Kindergarten Guidelines (if appropriate), and the child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP).

ECSE Eligibility

Children with disabilities may be eligible for services on or before their third birthday. Disabilities served through special education are defined by the Texas Education Agency. Amarillo ISD will complete an evaluation to identify any suspected disabilities a child may have. Referrals for special education can be initiated through the elementary campus at which the child would attend Kindergarten.

Child Find

Child Find is designed to locate children and students with disabilities who may be eligible for special education services. Amarillo ISD displays public notices and advertises the availability of services through the media and meetings with private schools. For children who are not yet three years of age, a referral is routed through Early Childhood Intervention (ECI).