Strengthening Preschool Special Education in Rhode Island

Many Rhode Island families face challenges accessing preschool special education. Our latest report explores the issues—and solutions—to strengthen services for young learners.

Rhode Island’s preschool special education system plays a vital role in ensuring that young children with disabilities receive the support they need to thrive. However, many families experience gaps in services, challenging transitions from Early Intervention (EI), and barriers to accessing preschool special education due to funding shortfalls and staffing shortages. RIPIN’s latest report examines these issues and provides five key recommendations to improve the system.

Methodology

Recommendations

RIPIN has identified five key policy changes that can improve access to preschool special education and ensure that all young learners get the services they need.

✅ Extend Early Intervention services until the September after a child’s third birthday
✅ Streamline transitions between Early Intervention and preschool special education
✅ Make the preschool special education teacher certification more attractive
✅ Increase state funding for preschool special education
✅ Enhance inclusion in the RI Pre-K program