Understanding Indicator 7: A Gateway to Preschool Success
In the realm of special education, Indicator 7 plays a pivotal role in shaping the educational journey of preschool children with disabilities. As a Special Education Director, it is crucial to understand and implement the processes associated with Indicator 7 to ensure that federal funding through IDEA is effectively utilized to make a significant difference in the lives of young children and their families.
The Background and History of Indicator 7
Indicator 7 focuses on preschool outcomes, specifically targeting children aged 3 through 5 with Individualized Educational Programs (IEPs). The U.S. Department of Education, through the Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP), allocates over $500 million for preschool special education. The goal is to measure and improve the outcomes for these young learners.
Historically, the Battelle Developmental Inventory-2 was used to assess children upon entry and exit from preschool. However, based on stakeholder feedback, the Child Outcomes Summary (COS) process was introduced in 2019-2020 to a pilot group of districts and is now being rolled out statewide.
What Are Preschool Outcomes?
Preschool outcomes are measured in three key areas:
- Positive social-emotional skills: Including social relationships.
- Acquisition and use of knowledge and skills: Encompassing early language, communication, and early literacy.
- Use of appropriate behaviors to meet their needs: Including self-help and motor skills.
The COS process does not rely on a single assessment instrument but rather synthesizes information from multiple sources to provide a comprehensive picture of a child's functioning across various settings and situations.
The Child Outcomes Summary (COS) Process
The COS process is a team-based approach that involves summarizing a child's functioning in each of the three outcome areas. The process uses a 7-point rating scale and involves the following steps:
- Data collection upon program entry and exit.
- Team discussions to complete the COS Form and assign a rating.
- Entry and exit data entered into the Homeroom Application twice a year.
The COS team consists of family members, teachers, child study team members, and other relevant professionals who discuss and assess the child's functioning to ensure a holistic view of their abilities and progress.
Benefits of the COS Process
The COS process offers numerous benefits, including:
- Comprehensive assessment of a child's skills across multiple settings.
- Facilitated team discussions that provide diverse perspectives.
- Data-driven insights for program improvement and policy formulation.
These benefits ensure that preschool programs are better equipped to support children with disabilities, ultimately enhancing their educational outcomes.
Implementing Indicator 7 in Your District
As a Special Education Director, it is essential to ensure the effective implementation of Indicator 7 in your district. This involves training staff on the COS process, ensuring accurate data entry, and facilitating team discussions to drive meaningful outcomes for preschool children with disabilities.
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