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Programmatic Support and Technical Assistance BranchMaryland's Early Intervention and Preschool Special Education (Birth through 5)The supports and services provided through early intervention and preschool special education can help infants; toddlers and children and their families make the powerful connections to improve their ability to learn and play. These services are all based on the federal Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA); which ensure that all children with disabilities have the opportunity to receive a free and appropriate education (FAPE) to support their unique development and learning needs. The evidence has shown that one of the most effective ways to achieve this mandate is to reach children with developmental delays and disabilities when they are very young. Early intervention and education helps to open the window of opportunity for young children with disabilities and their families.

In Dorchester County; the Local Management Board is known as the Office of Child and Family Services. The Board coordinates a system of local services for Dorchester County children; youth; and families (Code Human Services Article; secs. 8-301 through 8-305). Health; education; social and justice services are provided to young people who may be moved from their home because of abuse; neglect; delinquency; or special needs. In the community; the Board coordinates services so that children; placed in programs out-of-state; may be helped closer to home.

Partners for Success Centers; established as part of each local school system in Maryland; have as their goal the provision of knowledge and the development of essential skills fundamental to parents and professionals working together as equal partners in the educational decision making process. Specifically; Partners for Success Centers seek to: increase parental involvement in the special education decision making process; provide information and resources about disabilities and community services; assist families in resolving concerns and to make informed decisions regarding their child?s education; and increase collaborative relationships through information and training. Partners for success serves students age 3-21.

Preschool Partners support families when children transition from the Infants and Toddlers Program (ITP) to the local school system (LSS) preschool special education program or other community-based early childhood setting; the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) has made funding available to local ITPs to expand services provided through the local Family Support Network (FSN). Preschool Partners provide ongoing support to families of children ages 3 through 5; maintaining the connection with the local ITP; as well as fostering new connections among families; preschool programs; and community services.