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School Readiness Program

The goal of the School Readiness Program is to ensure that every youth in care between the ages of 3-5 is enrolled in a high-quality Early Childhood Education (ECE) or early childhood care program, based on program availability and child placement area. School readiness staff also provide information and resources regarding early childhood care and education to intact families, post adoptive families and youth in care who are teen parents.

The School Readiness Program supports enrollment in the following early childhood care and education programs:

  • Head Start or Early Head Start.
  • Pre-kindergarten programs for children at risk of academic failure (pre-K).
  • Accredited childcare programs (licensed childcare and home visiting programs).
  • Early intervention services for infants and toddlers with developmental delays.
  • Early childhood special education programs for children aged 3-5 years with disabilities.
     

Important ECE Program preparation activities:
Upon the child’s 3rd birthday:

  • Inform ECE Program that the child was receiving early intervention services.
  • The caseworker or foster parent refers child for a preschool screening through the school district or special education cooperative.
  • If there are educational concerns the caseworker or foster parent shall request in writing a meeting with the school to determine if the child is eligible for an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Plan evaluation.
     

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Need help or more information?
For more information or assistance, please email the school readiness team: DCFS.SchoolReadiness@Illinois.gov

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