MSAD 6 outlines plan to expand pre‑K and prepare to assume special‑education services for 3‑ and 4‑year‑olds

MSAD 6 Superintendent delivered a detailed plan to the school board to expand pre‑K offerings and to prepare for a state requirement that SAUs assume full responsibility for special‑education services for 3‑ and 4‑year‑olds by July 1, 2028.

The superintendent said the district currently operates six pre‑K classrooms with a combined capacity of 96 students and that recent demand has led the district to turn away about 53 applicants last year. He said the district is considering adding two regular pre‑K classrooms (32 seats) and 3–4 additional classrooms for students with disabilities, which would bring regular pre‑K seats toward 128 districtwide.

The presentation explained eligibility rules for state subsidy: pre‑K students must turn 4 on or before Oct. 15 to qualify for the program counted under the state formula, and 3‑year‑old regular pre‑K is not currently offered districtwide. The superintendent said the state’s transition requires SAUs to provide speech, occupational and physical therapy and other services “in the least restrictive environment” and that the district will plan to deliver services both…