Tecler Preschool Program
Preschoolers with disabilities ages 3-5

Comprehensive preschool program for children ages 3-5 with disabilities:
  • Students are grouped together based on learning characteristics and provided an array of educational instruction and related services.
  • A daily intergener-ational component is integrated into students' activities.

 

 


  • Program participants demonstrated statistically significant and educationally meaningful growth in language skills as measured by auditory/receptive, expressive communication, and total language standard scores on the Preschool Language Scale-3.
  • In contrast, the scores of 2 groups of comparison students showed either no significant growth or a significant decline.
 
The Program

The Tecler Preschool Program provides education, therapeutic plans, and a supportive environment to handicapped children to promote self-esteem, productivity, and success. By developing an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) for each child, children develop to the fullest extent possible and are thus better prepared to transition to kindergarten.

Children attend school 5 days per week for 46 weeks per year for 5.5 hours a day. Students are grouped together for instruction based on individual learning characteristics, levels of social and physical development, and management needs. Related services, including occupational, physical, and speech therapy, are provided in conjunction with special education programs. One-on-one instruction is provided, as well as small group activities, according to each child's IEP.

An interdisciplinary team meets each week to evaluate and update program and student progress. Representatives from community agencies participate when appropriate. Parents are integrally involved in every aspect of their children's education through the IEP, monthly newsletter, quarterly reporting, Early Step, parent support groups, open houses, and Special Education Parent-Teacher Association meetings.

An intergenerational component and integrated activities with K-2 peers occur on a daily basis. Children's skills are monitored and evaluated in four fundamental areas: a) receptive and expressive communication, b) school readiness skills, c) social/emotional functioning, and d) motor development.

Professional Development

A 2-3 day training is available.

Costs & Funding Options

Special staffing should include a special education teacher, a speech therapist, occupational or physical therapist, as well as a social worker. The 2-3 day training costs $600 per day and should be attended by all preschool staff, including teachers, paraprofessionals, and clinical team members. On-site training is available at a cost of $900 per day plus expenses. Follow-up is recommended. Brochures and printed materials are available free of charge.

Learning Standards
The program addresses early literacy.

 

 
Contact:
Nellie Bush
Principal/Director
W.B. Tecler Preschool Program
Greater Amsterdam School District
Northern Boulevard
Amsterdam, NY 12010
518-843-4805/4944
fax: 518-842-0012