Speaker outlines preschool services for children with disabilities and cites need for foundation funding

An unidentified speaker told the meeting they provide services for children who qualify under the "Disabilities Act," serving ages 3 to 5 and providing an individualized education plan for each child. "They are from age 3 to 5, and they will have an individualized education plan," the speaker said.

The speaker said the program focuses on early learning and school readiness, citing cognitive development and a claim that "90% of your brain is developed by age 5" to underline the importance of early intervention. They described classroom priorities as cognitive skills, critical thinking, problem solving, literacy and numeracy to prepare children for kindergarten.

The speaker also emphasized social and emotional development, saying the program teaches children to manage emotions, develop self‑regulation, gain confidence and foster independence. They added the program includes health and nutrition supports and "a lot of family support because it does have a long term impact on children and what they receive between birth and 5 years old."

On resources, the speaker said the program "relies on the educational foundation to provide us funds to purchase new tools and hands on type of learning activities," and described staff availability and coordination: "We're available all the time for the parents. We also have a preschool coordinator that is available." The speaker noted Head Start family advocates are available to work with parents as well.

The speaker closed with a personal note on impact, saying they feel a direct impact on children and stressing many children lack the routine, structure and access to art and cooperative learning at home. The meeting record does not show any formal motions, votes or follow‑up actions related to this presentation.